893.00/1–1448: Telegram
The Consul General at Mukden ( Ward ) to the Secretary of State
[Received January 14—9:50 a. m.]
23. General Chen Cheng informed me today Communist combatant Chinese forces northeast composed 13 columns plus 15 independent divisions totaling 400,000 troops, 4 east Mongol army corps of 57,000 troops and 3 Korean military districts with 150,000 troops. Total strength Communist combatant forces in NE estimated be 633,500 men. In addition Communists have 2 columns of 52,000 troops in Jehol, Chahar, north Hopei area. Total Communists’ forces greatly outnumber Government combatant forces.
Russians now in process supplying NE Communists 500,000 Japanese rifles and 100,000 machine guns plus large quantities ammunition including artillery shells. These Japanese weapons so constructed severe Manchurian cold does not seriously impair operation whereas American equipment Government has operated best [in] warm climates. Serious light machine guns stoppage problem being encountered after gun exposed to cold 4 hours.
[Page 37]Communists employing more artillery this offensive than heretofore.
Government rapidly losing superiority heretofore enjoyed over Communists [with] use American supplied planes, vehicle and ordnance. No replacement parts available. Now necessary cannibalize three trucks keep one in operation. Tire shortage critical. Planes deteriorating rapidly and being deadlined for complete overhaul after maximum two or three missions. General ammunition shortage American weapons exists. All American supplied equipment now losing effectiveness through obsolescence and deterioration. Need new equipment and replacement parts for old already entered critical stage.
Sent Embassy; repeated Department as 23, Peiping 16, Tientsin 11.