741.90F/11–848
The Secretary of Defense (Forrestal) to the Secretary of State
Dear Mr. Secretary: This is with reference to my letter of 16 August 19481 transmitting the views of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.…
The Joint Chiefs of Staff, as a result of still further studies, have come to additional conclusions as to action which should be taken in Saudi Arabia to improve the strategic position of the United States. Their views as expressed to me are as follows:
“The Joint Chiefs of Staff have recently completed an analysis of the strategic requirements of the United States in Saudi Arabia, which was forwarded to you on 10 August 1948. In elaboration of this analysis, they desire to express the opinion that our world-wide strategic position would be greatly improved if, in the event of war, the means could be developed to defend successfully, and to conduct sustained air operations from Dhahran Air Base. An initial step in achieving this ultimate objective would be to introduce into the area at the earliest feasible moment additional U.S. military personnel. It is believed that this initial increase in personnel could be effected by expanding the Air Force Training Mission now stationed at Dhahran Air Base through the addition of Army and Navy contingents.
“The Joint Chiefs of Staff consider it highly desirable that the Secretary of State be advised of their views and aims in this respect and of their conviction that an approach should be made to the Saudi Arabian Government at the earliest possible moment consistent with diplomatic considerations in order to obtain its consent to such an expansion of the Air Force Training Mission. At such time, they would be most willing to provide representation if the Department of State so desires, to participate in any planning which may be necessary to determine the exact details of the diplomatic approach to be adopted in order to secure a favorable reaction on the part of the Saudi Arabian Government.
“In order to effect this contemplated expansion, it will be necessary for the Joint Chiefs of Staff at the appropriate time to make provision in the Military Establishment budget for the necessary supporting funds. They would therefore appreciate being informed at such time as it appears to the Secretary of State that diplomatic negotiations with the Saudi Arabian Government concerning this expansion can be undertaken.”
I concur in the desirability from a military standpoint of undertaking the steps which are recommended by the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and I would appreciate your advice and assistance in this regard.
Sincerely yours,