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when not otherwise engaged. The probable number of C-119's to be required is twenty-two (22). This plan would save the United States several million dollars, in MDAP aircraft and at the same time give the French the capability of launching a large-scale airborne offensive. (See Annex "0" for detailed discussion of Air Transport and Troop Carrier Operations).

36. The Air Logistics picture is the brightest air aspect in Vietnam from the standpoint of improvement shown during the past eight months. Here again, personnel are badly needed. The French have agreed to request Paris for additional mechanics and supply personnel as well as to train additional indigenous personnel to alleviate this condition (see Annex "P").

37. The Air Training School for the Vietnamese Air Force at Nha Trang is well set up but too limited in numbers of trainees- The French have promised to expand the training of Vietnamese air personnel (see Annex "Q").

38. In summary, the French Air Force can support an offensive operation with its present equipment, augmented by additional personnel. The loan of C-119's for the limited period of a specific operation will give them the capability for a three-battalion airdrop.

39. : Both the Tonkin Delta area in North Indochina and the Mekong River Delta area in South Indochina are interlaced with a series of canals and interconnecting rivers that form the country's main transportation system. This river and canal system provides means for surprise amphibious assaults in both Delta areas. The enemy offers no resistance to French ships at sea. The French naval forces have sustained greatest damage from mines and ambushes in narrow

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