153. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Portugal1

654. Lisbon’s A-333, A-387.2 Subj: FY 1963 MAP.

1.
Dept sympathetic problems resulting from suspension FY 1963 MAP deliveries to Portugal, particularly difficulties caused Embassy with younger military officers. We also aware disadvantages from NATO standpoint. However, we unable consider lifting suspension FY 1963 MAP equipment unless following conditions are met: (a) withdrawal [Page 315] remaining F-86’s from Guinea; (b) firm commitment that MAP equipment to be furnished would remain in North Atlantic Treaty area and (c) reasonably effective means of confirming compliance. (Agreement on Loran-C would also help but a-b-c required.)
2.
Regardless MAP aspects, Dept considers new approach on F-86’s necessary. Ambassador therefore requested see FonMin at early date to reassert importance we attach to withdrawal. You should refer categorical undertakings given personally by FonMin Dec 6 (Embtel 493)3 and inquire when these commitments will be fulfilled. (Would appreciate Embassy’s estimate number F-86’s still Guinea.)4
3.
Meanwhile, irrespective conditions paragraph one, and subject Embassy/MAAG views, Dept and DOD agreeable releasing some FY 63 MAP funds to offer small number Loran-C receivers to Navy (in addition those lent for civilian use mentioned Deptel 617)5 to improve Loran-C attractiveness. Offer of course conditional on favorable response Loran-C sites.

Copies pertinent memos pouched Lisbon.6

Rusk
  1. Source: Johnson Library, National Security File, Country File, Portugal, Vol. 1. Secret. Drafted by Barbour; cleared in DOD, G/PM, and EUR; and approved by U. Alexis Johnson. Repeated to Paris.
  2. Airgram A-333, February 1, contained Embassy recommendations regarding the delivery of MAP to Portugal. (National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964-66, DEF 19-2 US-PORT) Airgram A-387, February 29, recommended the release to Portugal of MAP arms and equipment. (Ibid., DEF 19-3 US-PORT)
  3. See footnote 4, Document 148.
  4. Telegram 894 from Lisbon, May 19, reported Portuguese assurances that no F-86s were in Guinea. (National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964-66, DEF 19-3 PORT-US)
  5. Not printed. (Ibid.)
  6. Not further identified.