865.248/5–1447: Telegram
The Secretary of State to the Embassy in Italy
734. Reur 1146 May 14 FLC issuing instructions FLC Rome to negotiate transfer planes at nominal price (Deptel 695 May 15) to be arranged in consultation you.
Figure of $92,000 is total estimate. Final price to be determined by FLC in consultation with you on basis Ital capabilities in accordance Deptel 695.
War Dept has informal reports indicating Itals already forced cannibalize some P–38’s to maintain serviceability P–38’s presently operational. War reiterates impracticability furnishing maintenance parts spares 38’s. You shd therefore discourage any further consideration Itals continued use 38’s and urge acceptance overall combined US–UK plan as offered. Dept exploring further with War possibility accept return 38’s for credit and will advise soonest.
Contemplated training will be by US personnel in Germany and will involve stationing no US mil personnel in Italy after R plus 90.