The proposed retained base network includes Britain, Malta, Durban, and Mombasa, with a Far Eastern base to follow. It is much smaller than the RNAS's wartime footprint, reflecting postwar contraction while supporting deployed fleets. Malta serves the Mediterranean Fleet, while British facilities support ships in home waters. The bases give fleet aviation a continuing shore organisation alongside its carriers.
Chapter · 57:34-1:06:01
The Sea Is One case for naval air bases
A fleet-controlled air arm would retain a smaller but global chain of bases and treat aviation as part of the same support system as ships, fuel, and rearmament.