160. Telegram From the Embassy in Thailand to the Department of State1
974. Department for Ambassador Martin. Ref: Deptel 1076.2 I saw Marshal Dawee this morning on T–28’s as instructed reftel. He has consulted with Prime Minister Thanom and CINC RTAF and has agreed turn over to us ten RTAF T–28’s immediately for operations in Laos. Anything beyond that number, according to Dawee, would create extreme difficulties for RTAF on basis emasculation their operations and ongoing training programs. (RTAF now down to 31 T–28’s. Loan of ten for Laos would leave only 21 for three composite squadrons and training program.)
I outlined to Marshal Dawee seriousness of situation and fact that nine T–28’s lost on January 24 were in addition to other losses over period of past six weeks, which had brought number of aircraft available for vital operations in Laos to dangerously low ebb. Dawee intimated he would give matter further consideration, but I suspect he is having real difficulties with Air Chief Marshal Boon Choo. I told him we in turn would also consider the matter further and would be in touch again at a later date.
JUSMAG getting in contact with RTAF immediately to effect necessary transfer of ten aircraft.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, DEF 19–3 US LAOS. Secret; Priority. Repeated to Vientiane and CINCPAC.↩
- In telegram 1076, January 26, the Department instructed the Charge in Thailand to approach the Thai Government about the loan of 14 T–28 aircraft of which 9 should be ready for immediate delivery. These aircraft would eventually be replaced from the Laos military assistance program. (Ibid.)↩