Page:Pentagon-Papers-Part V. B. 2. b.djvu/81



751G.5-MAP/5-350:

AMEMBASSY, LONDON. 2049 FOR MERCHANT.

PRES on MAY 1 approved allocation of ten million DOLS from 303 to Defense to cover current early shipment urgently needed MIL aid items to IC. Also approved was three million for Indonesia.

DEPT has requested Defense IMMED to start supply action on two hundred thousand rounds 37 mm ammunition plus 9,000 links to Army of FR Union IC consigned COMDR in Chief Saigon. At some time Dept has requested Defense to initiate supply action equipment (less small arms) for 12 infantry battalions for the Vietnam State Army (as separate from FR Union Forces). Dept has requested at least a part of latter equipment if at all possible be included in same shipment with 37 mm ammunition and consigned High MIL COMITE for Vietnam Army. Thus first shipment WLD contain items for both Army FR Union and Viet Army. Defense has no timetable yet for departure date of such shipment but Dept has pushed for early action. Aid will be subject usual bilateral agreements if in view Dept those required. Airplanes now under discussion between MAAG Paris and FR authorities. When mutual agreement is reached on airplane types and firm program emerges, DEPT will request further funds be allocated since ten million insufficient.

In view requests for INFO on US MIL aid to IC from both FR and Viets Dept believes above INFO SHLD be communicated to both FR and Viet Govts for their confidential RPT confidential INFO.

Dept proposes communicate this INFO this week to FR AMB WASH. US DEL London notify FR DEL, EMS Paris notify FR Govt and LEG Saigon notify High Commissioner and Viet Govt SUBJ to comments USDEL, Paris EMB and Saigon LEG.

ACHESON FE:PSA:REHoey

Rh