851.248/185: Telegram
The Ambassador in France (Bullitt) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 25—7:48 a.m.]
817. Your 290, April 21, 6 p.m. I discussed the subject of French orders for Allison motors with the Minister for Air last night. He said that while he had no doubt personally that the V–1710–19 with supercharger would prove to be exactly what the French needed it was legally impossible for him to place orders for this motor until one should have been inspected in France. He hoped that one of these motors would be shipped to France at the earliest possible moment and he could promise me that the tests would be made instantly.
The Minister for Air again stated that in his opinion the French Government would wish to place orders for at least 800 of these engines to be delivered at the earliest possible moment. He was delighted to hear that there seemed to be a possibility that the rate of production could be increased.