When the V-1 attacks on Antwerp were stepped up in December, 86th (HAC) returned to the Antwerp 'X' defences, where it also had to make preparations to operate in a ground role in case the German Ardennes Offensive broke through to the city. One Troop and Advanced RHQ were deployed in anti-tank positions. The regiment also lent its transport (1584 Platoon, Royal Army Service Corps) to allow other HAA regiments to act as a mobile Army Group Royal Artillery (AGRA). Despite concerted attacks on nearby airfields by "Luftwaffe" fighters on 1 January (Operation Bodenplatte), the ground situation was well under control and the AGRA and local defence plans were cancelled on that day.