Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume XX, Southeast Asia, 1969–1972

108. Telegram From the Embassy in Thailand to the Commanding General of the U.S. Air Force in Thailand (Evans)¹

Bangkok, February 24, 1971, 1121Z.

2566. Subject: ARC Light Capability. Ref: 7/13AF 230900Z Feb 71.²

1. PoMil counselor conveyed to Air Chief Marshal Dawee this morning on urgent basis our plan bring additional nine B–52’s into U-Tapao to support maximum air effort in SEA. Dawee made note of fact that this would bring total number of B–52’s to 51 and that five combat lightning K–135’s would be removed. He asked how soon RTG approval was required. Counselor did not reveal fact that aircraft were at this point already airborne but said he hoped approval could be granted on the spot. Dawee did so, saying he would immediately inform PriMin.

2. While Dawee indicated full support for currently ongoing operations to cut enemy lines in Laos and expressed understanding for urgency of B–52 deployment, he clearly registered point that RTG approval was required for this deployment.

3. Ambassador subsequently touched base on B–52 deployment with Prime Minister who had already been informed by Dawee.

Unger

1. Source: National Archives, RG 59, ISP/P Files: Lot 72 D 504. Top Secret; Priority; Limdis. Repeated to the Department of State, CINCPAC, and SAC.
2. Not found.