204. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Kuwait1
52. Embtels 762 and 88,3 US Arms Sales Kuwait. Basic guideline concerning US and UK military sales in Kuwait continues to be as stated Deptel 112, November 1, 1963.4 That is, tacit understanding that we are prime supplier to Saudi Arabia while British have same position in Kuwait. This does not preclude US companies trying sell Kuwait but it does mean we will keep British informed whenever approval is given for such sales attempt. Embassy is of course authorized accord usual commercial assistance to US firms which have received prior Departmental approval required under munitions control regulations.
Douglas (in March 1964) and Northrop (in September 1963) received appropriate authorization to make unclassified sales presentation on A-4E and F-5, respectively. (No authorization given for Sidewinders, Hawks, or other missiles.) Douglas representative Washington confirms present company sales plans as reported Kuwait tel 88.
Kuwait and London should inform British Embassy and FonOff, respectively, of foregoing. We are informing British Embassy Washington.
- Source: National Archives and Records Administration, RG 59, Central Files 1964-66, DEF 12-5 KUW-US. Confidential. Drafted by Moore on September 9; cleared by Bunte, and Colonel Evans (G/PM), and in substance by Steve Koumanelis (G/MC) and Quinn (DOD/ISA); and approved by Davies. Also sent to London and repeated to CINCSTRIKE/CINCMEAFSA for Ramsey.↩
- In telegram 76 from Kuwait, September 2, Cottam asked for guidance on handling the possibility of Kuwaiti arms purchases from the United States in commercial or official discussions, saying that the Embassy had been approached by a Douglas aircraft representative. (Ibid.)↩
- Telegram 88 from Kuwait, September 9, reported that Douglas had made a package offer of six jet planes, including training, which the Government of Kuwait was apparently ready to accept. (Ibid.)↩
- Not printed. (Ibid., Central Files 1961-63, DEF 12-5 KUW)↩