Havana, June 16, 1958 - 3 p.m.

847. Department pass Air Force. Embassy understands Department now will not clear export application T-28 trainers purchased from Jonas Aircraft. The facts regarding T-28s follow:

(A) Cuban AF has urgent requirement for T-28s to be used in training student pilots. Their acquisition will further a program of self-sufficiency in pilot training. This is goal advocated by US. These aircraft needed to replace obsolete T-6 trainers which no longer supportable.

(B) T-28 was designed specifically as trainer rather than combat aircraft.

(C) As customary with training aircraft, T-28 can be used to train pilots in combat-type maneuvers and thus has provisions for carrying practice rockets and bombs.

(D) It is conceivable that Cubans will use some T-28s in action against rebels if circumstances warrant.

(E) If the Cubans cannot obtain these aircraft from US they will obtain similar type from some other country.

Strongly urge favorable reconsideration of export license. Decision should be expedited as Cuban letter of credit expires June 30.[2]

Smith

NOTES:

1. Source: Department of State, Central Files, 437.1182-lonas Aircraft And Arms Co. Inc. Secret; Priority.

2. In telegram 728 to Havana, June 19, the Department informed the Embassy that the export application for the T-28 trainers had been approved. (Ibid.)