A permanent commitment to Heligoland gives British aircraft designers a concrete range requirement: fighters must be able to ferry from Britain to the island and operate over the German coast. Possible responses include greater internal fuel, drop tanks, or more emphasis on twin-engined fighters. Once established, the base's radar and fighters could warn of German activity, escort bombers over part of Germany, and challenge aircraft and submarines threatening its supply route. Flying boats, coastal patrol aircraft, hydrophones, and short overnight voyages offer several ways to sustain the garrison while forcing Germany to spend disproportionate resources against it.
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Fighter range, radar, and keeping the fortress supplied
Holding Heligoland could shape British fighter range requirements and create a forward radar and air base sustained by short sea routes, flying boats, and protected supply channels.