2
 
      
 
 
the total production of all types for the German Air Force 
      the above output amounts to about 7,500 first line types during 
      the year. With such an output of first line types it would be 
      possible to raise the first line strength to the 4,500 mentioned 
      in paragraph 2, to re-equip 50% of the existing first line and 
      to raise the reserve to about 100% modern types as well as meeting 
      normal wastage requirements.
 
      
 
 
4. British policy vis-a-vis the German air threat
 
      
 
 
The policy adopted by the British Government to meet the situation 
      brought about by the expansion of German and other air armaments 
      was explained to the House of Commons by the Secretary of State 
      for Air on 10th November, 1938. The Secretary of State described 
      our objective as an Air Force adequate for our necessities: our 
      necessities, as previously defined by the Prime Minister, being 
      the protection of the United Kingdom, preservation of the trade 
      routes, defense of British territories overseas, and co-operation 
      in the defense of the territories of our Allies in case of war. 
      The Secretary of State added that the policy aimed at producing 
      a sound and balanced force for war, adequate for our strategic 
      necessities and with the depth behind it to enable it to sustain 
      its efforts should we be attacked.
 
      
 
 
5. It is clear from this definition that the British Government 
      do not regard parity of numbers of first line aircraft as a satisfactory 
      test of what is adequate for a sound air defense. The test of 
      parity in first line has, in fact, no strategic basis, a formidable 
      first line, lacking depth, is no more than a facade which will 
      melt and disappear under conditions of war wastage. Again, the 
      strength of the aircraft required in the different categories 
      will vary widely from one
 
      
 
 
* A war wastage rate of 50% per month can be regarded as normal