Foreign Relations of the United States, Diplomatic Papers, 1941, General, The Soviet Union, Volume I

861.24/659: Telegram

The Ambassador in the Soviet Union (Steinhardt) to the Secretary of State

Moscow, October 4, 1941—11 a.m.
[Received 3:26 p.m.]

1757. For Hopkins from Harriman. In order to translate the spirit of our conference into actuality urgently desirable that a maximum amount critically needed material be dispatched earliest possible.

First priority is tanks and aircraft and at least 66 light and 100 medium tanks should be shipped to Russia in October. Something over 100 light tanks must also go to Middle East in October in order to complete equipping British division. Will furnish additional details³ after further discussion with British.

Also as many P–40 and A–20 aircraft as possible should be sent to Russia in October. British will adjust our deficiencies in early months.

Two months’ supply barbed wire, namely 8,000 tons, is badly needed and should be forwarded this month if possible.

Further monthly shipments at least 300 tons molybdenum and 400 tons graphite electrode sand, 100 tons phosphorus and petroleum products as needed, probably not exceeding 20,000 tons monthly. Other much needed materials armor plate, toluol, tin plate, nickel chrome wire, machine tools, abrasive sand, sole leather or suitable hides. Further requirements include specification steels and alloys which must await details from Amtorg.

Cannot too strongly urge desirability adequate priority so that as much as possible may be shipped in October and November. [Harriman.]⁴

Steinhardt

3. Telegram No. 4823, October 10, noon, p. 844.
4. The reply sent to London in telegram No. 4306, October 8, 1941, listed in detail the items available for procurement by the Soviet Union for delivery during October and November 1941 (861.24/657).