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It is not believed that a belligerent will attempt a "landing in force" on a hostile shore when opposed by an enemy possessing strength approximately his own. In any event he is not likely to choose for such purpose strong points such as fortified harbors.

It appears that raids, launched where the Fleet is not in a position to intervene, are the most probable form of attack which harbor defenses will be called upon to meet. These may take the form of airplane attacks launched from carrier bases; or of such attacks combined with attacks by surface and subsurface craft.

In organizing for defense against raids from the sea the demands for reconnaissance require the use of aircraft designed for overseas scouting and patrolling and of suitable service craft to cooperate with and supplement their operations. Under the provisions of "Joint Action of the Army and the Navy" these functions are assigned to the Navy.

Radio communication is necessary to enable prompt transmission of information obtained by these overseas scouts. While it is the Navy's responsibility to furnish the means for this communication in connection with overseas reconnaissance, it is essential that Harbor Defenses and Army air stations located within operating radius of the coast shall, by providing the requisite equipment and practising a common procedure and method, be prepared to receive promptly the information thus obtained.

The fact that this offshore patrol is maintained by the Navy does not relieve the Harbor Defenses of responsibility for the usual terrestrial observation or for close-in observation of possible targets by aircraft. For this latter purpose important harbors should have Army observation

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