Quote:
Originally Posted by Mahatatain
The base/structure may have become "BATSUB" in the mid-90s but my understanding is there have been British forces in Belize for a lot longer than that. My guess is that BATSUB is just a name change to what was already there.
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Prior to that British Forces Belize (BFB) was actually quite a bit larger (relatively speaking). The permanent garrison fluctuated between an Infantry Company and a full Battalion dependent on the political situation with Guatemala at any given time with support from 1 to 2 Flights of RAF Harriers (so 4 to 8 jets) and various support elements.
They were there to essentially guarantee Belize's security. I believe it was downsized in the early 90's when the threat from Guatemala was deemed to have lessened. There's a really good book called Phoenix Squadron by a guy called Rowland White which details a previous Guatemalan incursion in the 70's which was ended by the flying in of a Company of Grenadier Guards and the sudden appearance of Buccaneers from HMS Ark Royal overhead.
Essentially though you are correct, BATSUB was a name change for BFB. I should have been clearer about that. But also a significant downsizing.