First of all, a base for prospective operations must be determined by exhaustive investigations as to landings that may be suitable. While the first inquiries are made by naval officers, they can only be completed by army officers. The following essential points must be kept in view in searches made by naval officers:
I. To determine the naval strength required for protection of the transport fleet and to settle the question of communication with home ports.
II. To decide upon proper and specific points on the respective coasts, from a marine standpoint.
III. To investigate all harbor facilities for the disembarking of the troops, and to ascertain the number and size of ships the harbor will admit so as to insure the protection of the land and sea flank.
IV. To study the enemy's coast defenses and decide upon the strength required to attack them.
The researches of the army officers concern principally the following:
I. The aim of the operations is to overcome the obstacles as reported by the naval officers.
II. The number of troops which the opponents can muster against the invasion should be estimated.
III. All questions as to climate, water supply, and equipment necessary should be decided.
All this information has been shown to be of distinct value, and perhaps would cause us to alter, within the next year, the disposition of the line of battle in case of war. Through a well ordered intelligence department definite plans can be made.