865.248/12–1046: Telegram
The Chargé in Italy (Key) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 10—4:08 p.m.]
4350. We assume Dept has seen exchange of telegrams during past 2 months between War Dept and Western Base Sector and MTOUSA regarding equipping Italian air force from US sources with most modern combat planes available (see telegram 364 [2364], October 17 from WBS from Gerhart to War Dept for operations, telegram WX 83726 to WBS for Gerhart containing War Dept’s reply and Naf 1235 from SAC to CCS November 21) .5 Our Military Attaché has learned that representatives War Office London has presented under auspices air forces subcommittee AC which has British Air Vice Marshal as director6 complete plan for reequipment Italian air force from British sources for million and one-half pounds (see telegram Mar 521 and 526 dated December 2 and 5 from Military Attaché Rome to War Dept7). According to Italian Air Chief of Staff8 he expressed preference for P–51’s. British representative has returned to London to report Italian reaction.
If Italian air force is going to be modernized with American equipment it is believed Dept will wish to impress War Dept and JCS with political desirability of furnishing directly from American sources and not through HMG.
Dept 4350, repeated Caserta 1104 and London 596. Please inform Secdel for Dunn and Gerhart.