J. C. S. Files
Memorandum by the British Chiefs of Staff
secret
C. C. S. 401/1
C. C. S. 401/1
[Cairo,] 23 November 1943.
V. L. E. Airfields (B–29) in the China–Burma–India Area
- 1.
- As the United States Chiefs of Staff will be aware, the President has already telegraphed to the Prime Minister with regard to the provision of suitable airdromes in India and China for the operation of B–29 aircraft against Japan in the spring of 1944.1 The Prime Minister has instructed the Commander in Chief, India, to render every possible assistance in the construction of the four air bases in India and has so informed the President. An examination of the project has been undertaken and we are satisfied that the difficulties involved, including the movement of the extra tonnage required through the port of Calcutta, can be overcome.
- 2.
- We therefore accept the recommendations of the United States Chiefs of Staff contained in paragraph 7 of C. C. S. 4012 and are issuing the necessary instructions to the British authorities concerned.
- 3.
- If the necessary work in India is to be completed in time, it is essential that the United States units and equipment required should arrive in Calcutta by 15 January; otherwise the work will not be completed by 1 April and in fact would have to be stopped to allow resources temporarily diverted owing to airfield construction to be sent through to Ledo.