822.248/2–1347
The Ambassador in Ecuador (Scotten) to the Secretary of State
No. 4962
Sir: I have the honor to report that the United States Military Attaché in Quito22 has today furnished me with a copy of his report also dated today entitled “Threatened Resignation of Officers of Ecuadoran Air Force.” It is pointed out in the report that the resignation of these officers and possibly of others later is based upon the non-availability of suitable aircraft for military training. The Chief of the Ecuadoran Air Force23 and the Minister of Defense24 have been criticized directly for failing to obtain the aircraft which has been purchased from the United States or, in fact, to obtain even an approximate date as to when it may be expected. Reference is made to aircraft which had been purchased and paid for. This is understood to mean the one C–47, three C–45, and six P–47 airplanes25 which were reported to have been ready for delivery in Texas last fall. (Note: Number of airplanes involved is quoted from an oral statement by the Chief of the Ecuadoran Air Force.)
No direct mention was made of any other aircraft which Ecuador desires but which has not become available, due to difficulties in the way of delivery by the United States and in the way of financing by Ecuador. It is doubtful if the junior officers concerned will recognize all of these difficulties. The fact remains that resentment against the United States is being built up and much of the good work of the military missions in Ecuador is being lost.
It is earnestly recommended that at least some definite indication as to when the aircraft already purchased will be available for delivery to Ecuador be furnished to this Embassy or to the United States Military Air Mission in Quito.
A copy of the report referred to “above is attached hereto.26
Respectfully yours,
Counselor of Embassy