432. Telegram From the Chief of the Military Assistance Advisory Group in Iraq (Hannah) to the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs1
Baghdad, March 24,
1956—11:30 a.m.
IRAQ 9–045. Ref DEF 999351.2 This msg in 6 paras.
- 1
- —MAAG is not aware of any specific instances where British unable to meet valid requirements Iraqi Air Force. It is believed Iraqi request US support Iraqi Air Force based primarily on Iraqi desires have flexibility and strengthen Iraqi position in negotiations with UK in air force matters. In addition Iraq would prefer obtain air force equipment and training under grant aid rather than expend available funds for equipment and training in UK. In conversation with MAAG Chief, General Rafiq has never mentioned lack of training spaces in UK but had frequently referred to expense involved. Furthermore, General Rafiq has referred to desirability training pilots in US as an incentive for Iraqis to volunteer for air force.
- 2
- —It is MAAG opinion that US cannot justify MDAP support Iraqi Air Force on basis UK is not in position to meet valid military requirements. Believe UK is and will continue to provide everything Iraqi AF capable of absorbing and willing to pay for. While Iraqis have indicated some dissatisfaction British equipment and methods it is believed dissatisfaction stems primarily from Iraqi reluctance spend necessary funds rather than British inability provide additional training and more modern equipment.
- 3
- —There is no question as to importance Government of Iraq attributes to US support Iraq AF. The recent arrival of MIGs in Egypt has caused considerable internal political tensions high government circles and the political aspects considered over-riding in this matter.
- 4
- —MAAG considers that if State-Defense considerations indicate desirability of US nullifying or circumventing US–UK memo of understanding US position should be on basis Iraqi economic inability to pay for air force build up rather on basis UK unable meet valid air force requirements.
- 5
- —The immediate requirement Iraqi Air Force is pilot training in order to use aircraft now on hand. If decision made to provide MDAP support MAAG recommends initial program 15 pilot training spaces in US and material program 1 squadron (15 U/A) Hawker Hunter or F–86 to replace present squadron Sea Furys. Iraqis have indicated preference Hawker Hunter or F–86.
- 6
- —This msg coordinated with US Ambassador and AIRA.