Abstract
A PLAN for the organization of an International Air Force is outlined in the report of the Military Research Committee of the New Commonwealth Institute, which was printed just before the outbreak of the War but has only now been issued. The scope of the proposed Force is as a reinforcement of the self-defence of States, adequate to give each the sense of security from attack that its unaided strength, alliances, or guarantees of neutrality are unable to ensure. The scheme could only operate if a sufficient number of States consented to cooperate, and the report points out that absolute neutrality is inconsistent with co-operation against war by any plan. Associated States would make an annual contribution to a common pool, in equal proportion to their total resources or war budgets. The assistance afforded to each assured State would be the maximum possible and not determined by the amount of its contribution. After discussing the advantages and disadvantages of the alternative systems of a Force composed of national quotas and an independent organic Force recruited by voluntary enlistment, the report strongly recommends the latter. It is essential, that the Force should be as efficient, as homogeneous, and as certain to act when required as is humanly possible.
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An International Air Force. Nature 145, 697 (1940). https://doi.org/10.1038/145697a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/145697a0