NND Project Number: NND 63316. By: NWD Date: 2011
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the French apparently wanted them now, that they should be sent, and CIA should arrange for the necessary negotiations with the French in Indochina to take care of it.
11. Mr Kyes said that if we meet the French urgent demands should be tied to two things: first, the achievement of maximum, collaboration with the French in training and strategy, and secondly, the strengthening of General O'Daniel's hand in every way possible. General Smith felt we should reinforce General O'Daniel's position not only with the French in Indochina but also at the highest level in Paris.
12. Summary of Action Agreed Regarding Urgent French Requests
It was agreed:
- a. To provide at total of 22 B-26 aircraft as rapidly as practicable.
- b. To provide 200 uniformed U.S. Air Force mechanics who would be assigned as an augmentation to MAAG, Indochina. These mechanics to be provided only on the understanding that they would be used at bases where they would be secure from capture and would not be exposed to combat.
- c. To send the CAP pilots, with CIA arranging necessary negotiations.
- d. Not to provide a "dirigible."
- e. To await General O'Daniel's return to Washington before making a decision on the other French requests. Efforts should continue to get the French to contribute a maximum number of mechanics.
It was further agreed that General Smith would clear these recommended actions with the President.
13. The next item discussed was the status of General O'Daniel. Mr. Kyes said General Trapnell, the present Chief of MAAG, is being replaced at the normal expiration of his tour. General Dabney had been chosen to replace General Trapnell and is about to leave for Indochina. Admiral Radford pointed out that General O'Daniel could be made Chief of MAAG without any further clearance with the French Government. General Smith said this would be all right but should not preclude further action to increase the position or General O'Daniel. General Erskine pointed out that the MAAG in Indochina is not a "military mission" but only an administrative group concerned with the provision of MDAP equipment. He thought the MAAG status should be raised to that of a mission which could
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