Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XXIV, Middle East Region and Arabian Peninsula, 1969–1972; Jordan, September 1970

126. Telegram From the Embassy in Kuwait to the Department of State¹

Kuwait, December 24, 1972, 0955Z.

2707. Dept pass SecDef ISA and USCINCEUR. Subject: Saudi MinDef Visit to Kuwait; Kuwaiti Military Purchases. Ref: Kuwait 2708 (Notal).²

1. I told Prince Sultan that, as he probably aware, Kuwaitis had some tentative ideas about strengthening their military defenses. I said that USG not urging Kuwait to buy arms, nor was I arms merchant. However, if Kuwait intended acquire costly defense weapons system, it was only sensible that they be compatible with strong friendly neighbors, namely Saudi Arabia and Iran.

2. Sultan replied he not only agreed hundred percent but he also discussing precisely this subject with Kuwaiti military. Sultan said he urging Kuwaitis to buy “four or five” batteries of improved Hawk and F–5’s, emphasizing re aircraft that Kuwaiti purchase of more sophisticated aircraft than F–5 would be serious and costly mistake. Sultan added he sending some of his officers to discuss defense requirements and Saudi experience with Hawk and F–5’s and has invited Kuwaiti officers to inspect Northrop facilities and operations in Saudi Arabia.

Stoltzfus

1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, DEF 12–5 KUW. Confidential; Exdis. It was repeated to Tehran.
2. Telegram 2708 from Kuwait, December 24, discussed Prince Sultan’s recent visit to Kuwait, Kuwaiti aid to Jordan, Saudi-Abu Dhabi relations, and Kuwaiti plans to purchase military equipment. (Ibid., POL 7 SAUD)