Forward bases depend on political access

Regional presence can sustain relationships and help identify instability before it becomes a major conflict. Negotiation becomes harder once shooting begins and positions harden. A physical base can be financially attractive, but a base in another country depends on that country's domestic and foreign policy. A host government's disagreement with a proposed operation can deny access when it is needed. An overseas territory offers greater autonomy, although even Britain lacks territories in every region where it might want a presence.