Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XXIX, Eastern Europe; Eastern Mediterranean, 1969–1972

322. Memorandum of Conversation¹

Washington, August 6, 1971, 10 a.m.

SUBJECT

• Deputy Secretary of Defense Meeting with Ambassador Tasca

PARTICIPANTS

• Department of State
  • United States Ambassador to Greece—Ambassador Tasca
• Department of Defense
  • Deputy Secretary of Defense—David Packard
  • Director, NESA Region—Brigadier General Devol Brett, USAF
  • Country Director, NESA Region—Mr. Charles W. Quinn

As in the case of his courtesy call on Secretary Laird,² Ambassador Tasca reiterated his recent activity with Congressional Committees and Congressman Hays (see attached Memcon covering these matters).³

After Ambassador Tasca reviewed his concern over Congressional reaction on the Greek issue and the role being played in this matter by Elias Demetracopoulos, the self-styled Greek resistance leader, Mr. Packard asked the Ambassador what DOD could do to counter this situation. Ambassador Tasca indicated that we should be aware of such activities by Demetracopoulos.

Ambassador Tasca expressed a preference for a resolution expressing the sense of Congress rather than an amendment curtailing military assistance to Greece. Mr. Packard agreed that the latter course of action was counterproductive.

Mr. Packard then handed Ambassador Tasca a letter relating to the Hawk missile system.⁴ Mr. Packard indicated that there was a lack of political support for overriding the Armyʼs position on the availability of this system. However, the Ambassador might wish to suggest to General Angelis that the Greeks might again talk to Raytheon and this might set the stage for more discussions on this matter with the Greeks.

Mr. Packard expressed some concern over the ability of the Greeks to finance the acquisition of F–4 aircraft.⁵ Ambassador Tasca suggested the possibility of the FRG assistance to Greece on the F–4.⁶ Mr. Packard agreed to look into the matter.

Ambassador Tasca raised the possibility of an air defense survey team to look at Greek air defense requirements. The possibility of providing some air defense expertise to the Greeks will be considered at the appropriate time, probably after September. General Brett indicated that in view of the presence of (4) F–4 squadrons in Europe, USAFE might be tasked for this survey. In any event the team might be deployed to Greece under a NATO aegis. Mr. Packard suggested some consideration might be given to the Redeye. Previously we had been reluctant to release this item.

Mr. Packard inquired about Greeceʼs relations with Libya, particularly its military training programs. Mr. Packard was informed that the arrangements have been established that will enable the Libyans to acquire F–5 spares which will make it possible for the Greek F–5 maintenance team to carry out its maintenance contract with the Libyans.

Ambassador Tasca expressed concern over the fact that in the past visits of high level U.S. military personnel to Greece had created some problems for him in that such visits conveyed the idea that the U.S. supported the current Greek regime. Mr. Packard assured the Ambassador that DOD policy and procedures are in effect that will enable such visits to be conducted in accordance with the Ambassadorʼs policy. Military to Military visits will be the rule unless the Ambassador desires to make an exception.

Ambassador Tasca also expressed concern over the Cyprus situation in view of the range of cards that Archbishop Makarios might be able to play in “heating up” the situation.

In conclusion Mr. Packard expressed his appreciation to the Ambassador for the hospitality and substantive talks during his recent Athens visit.

1. Source: Washington National Records Center, RG 330, OASD/ISA Subject Files:FRC 330 75–157, GR–7 Greece. Confidential. The meeting took place in the Pentagon. Drafted by Quinn and approved by Brett.
2. No record of this meeting was found.
3. Not found attached.
4. Dated August 6, it explained that due to a shortage of the upgraded HAWK system, DOD prioritization for assignment would go to U.S. military units. However, the Department had no objection to Greece approaching Raytheon Corporation to acquire “completely new equipment.” (Washington National Records Center, OASD/ISA Subject Files: FRC 330 75–157, GR–7 Greece)
5. In a July 22 letter to Angelis, Packard had indicated the readiness of the United States to sell F–4 aircraft to Greece subject to working out details of financing. (Ibid.)
6. In telegram 4542 from Athens, August 30, Tasca reported that he had discussed the possibility of German financing with FRG State Secretary for Defense Mommsen. In telegram 4717 from Athens, September 8, Tasca suggested that President Nixon directly intervene with Chancellor Brandt to secure financing. In telegram 4849 from Athens, September 15, Tasca suggested further moves that might be made to secure West German cooperation. In telegram 117514 to Athens, September 27, Under Secretary Johnson ruled out a presidential appeal while supporting Tascaʼs objectives. (All in National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Box 594, Country Files—Middle East, Greece, Vol. II 1 Nov 1970–31 Dec 1971)