That, as the Tribunal will observe, is headed “Gaining of Bases in Norway (extract from War Diary)” and bears the date of the 3rd of October 1939. It reads:
“The Chief of the Naval Operations Staff”—who was the Defendant Raeder—“considers it necessary that the Führer be informed as soon as possible of the opinions of the Naval Operations Staff on the possibilities of extending the operational base to the north. It must be ascertained whether it is possible to gain bases in Norway under the combined pressure of Russia and Germany, with the basic aim of improving our strategic and operational position. The following questions must be given consideration:
“(a) What places in Norway can be considered as bases?
“(b) Can bases be gained by military force against Norway’s will if it is impossible to carry this out without fighting?
“(c) What are the possibilities of defense after the occupation?
“(d) Will the harbors have to be developed completely as bases or have they already decisive advantages suitable for supply position?”