740.0011 European War 1939/10288: Telegram
The Minister in Egypt (Kirk) to the Secretary of State
[Received April 24—12:44 p.m.]
319. For the Secretary and Under Secretary. From tentative information available to me the following is a brief estimate of the material immediately essential for the defense of Egypt and the Canal Zone.
- (1)
- In addition to the 170 Tomahawks now in Takoradi but at present grounded owing to mechanical defects, 100 fighter planes and 100 checker bombers;
- (2)
- 350 cruiser 12-ton tanks.
An amplification of this estimate may be obtained from the reports to the War Department of the Military Attaché to this Legation.
It is impossible to determine whether Hitler’s next move will be against Egypt and the Canal or whether he will first intensify his attacks against Britain. Furthermore, conjectures are profitless as to whether this move will develop as a direct attack from Tripoli or whether it will be preceded or attended by attacks on Turkey or even against Gibraltar. The fact remains that, whatever other action Hitler or the Governments aligned with him may take in other parts, it is only logical to consider that this area is positively threatened and the threat must be regarded as immediate. Although since my arrival here I have endeavored in every possible way to satisfy myself that measures are under way to meet the essential requirements in [Page 271] material for the defense of Egypt and the Canal I must reluctantly admit that I have been unsuccessful. It is on that account that I am now submitting the foregoing brief and incomplete estimate of requirements and urge with all vigor that if everything possible is not already being done the Government of the United States take the initiative in determining what material should and can be sent here immediately and see to it that deliveries are made without delay either by air or by sea.