Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume E–12, Documents on East and Southeast Asia, 1973–1976

419. National Security Study Memorandum 240, Washington, April 9, 1976.¹ ²

Washington, April 9, 1976

NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20506

April 9, 1976

National Security Study Memorandum 240

TO: THE SECRETARY OF STATE
THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
THE DIRECTOR OF CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE

SUBJECT: Alternative Siting for Thai-based Operations

The withdrawal of us forces from Thailand necessitates a prompt determination of which activities formerly conducted there should be continued and where they should be relocated. A study should therefore be undertaken which will identify activities now carried on in Thailand which should be continued and make recommendations as to where these activities should be transferred. In view of the apparent suitability of Singapore as a location for some of these activities and of recent indications of interest by the Government of Singapore in closer cooperation with the United States on facilities and arms matters, the study should examine in particular the possibility and desirability of relocating Thai-based activities in Singapore.

The study should examine the advantages and disadvantages and present options and recommendations for each relocation site. The study should also make recommendations as to the approach to be taken toward the government of each country proposed as a relocation site to include the role and content of military assistance or sales programs.

The study should he prepared by a working group consisting of representatives of the addressees and chaired by the representative of the Department of Defense. It should be submitted to the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs by April 19 for review by principals prior to submission to the President.

[signed]
Brent Scowcroft

cc: Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff

1. Source: Ford Library, National Security Decision Memoranda and Study Memoranda, Box 2. Confidential. A copy was sent to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
2. Scowcroft asked the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, and the Director of the CIA to examine alternative locations for U.S. activities formerly conducted in Thailand.