CFM Files: Lot M–88: Box 71: Telegram
The Director of Plans and Operations, General Staff, U.S. Army ( Wedemeyer ) to the Military Attaché in the United Kingdom ( Bissell )
War 96023. See message number P–1258 of 10 February from Keyes to JCS 1 (copy sent to MA London for US Delegation). If Austrian Treaty should be agreed or in unlikely event agreement is reached that Austria Armed Forces should be established prior to conclusion of treaty considered here most desirable that equipment should not be of Soviet or Soviet satellite origin. Also considered that Austrians should not be encouraged to utilize German equipment because of maintenance and spare parts difficulties and because no substantial quantities German equipment under control US–UK. Such German equipment would therefore have to be obtained from Soviets (who are possibly continuing manufacture). Some initial equipment possibly may be derived from US–UK occupation forces in Austria upon withdrawal. However, amount equipment available these sources probably inadequate. Believe US must maintain position that Austria as sovereign [Page 1358] nation must have full freedom to obtain equipment from any source she desires and is able. Realize unattractive position of Austrian Army upon withdrawal occupation forces. However, no method now forseen whereby trained effective Austrian Army can be in existence prior to withdrawal occupying forces. Considered, in any event, occupation forces will still be present in Germany and will prove stabilizing influence and tend to neutralize undue Soviet pressure on weak Austria.
However, possibility Soviet opposition to equipping Austrian Army through free purchase is recognized. If Soviet fears have decisive effect on whether or not Austrian Army gets established we should be prepared consider proposal along lines suggested in P–1258. As you know, in absence legislation, US capabilities limited. Suggest you discuss with General Keyes requirements Austrian forces and possible sources equipment.
Notice Gruber does not mention Air Force or Gendarmerie so presume the strength of 35,000 pertains to ground army only. Re Air Force equipment, it is considered size of Air Force necessitates standardization of equipment and therefore believe agreement must be reached with British as to responsibility provide this equipment.
Above represents initial Army thinking only and forwarded to you for guidance in event the subject is raised in London. No JCS action contemplated this matter unless conference developments indicate overall agreement might be reached on Austrian Treaty or unless British formally request US views.
- Supra.↩