DELIVERED DEMARCHE OF REQUEST FOR M113 ARMORED

S E C R E T TUNIS 001082

SIPDIS

FOR PM/RSAT (DANIELEWSKI),NEA/ARP (MACDONALD),NEA/MAG
(MNARDI, VSTEWART)

E.O. 12958: DECL: 10/08/2018
TAGS: PREL SA TS
SUBJECT: DELIVERED DEMARCHE OF REQUEST FOR M113 ARMORED
VEHICLES

REF: STATE 105349

Classified By: Ambassador Robert F. Godec for reasons 1.4 (b) and (d)


1. (S) Summary: We have delivered via diplomatic note the
demarche requesting the GOT to consider transferring some of
its M113 armored personnel vehicles (APC) to Yemen. We do
not anticipate a positive response as the GOT is already
stretched to secure its own difficult borders. The
Ambassador will raise the issue personally with appropriate
officials. We recommend, in order to increase the
possibility of a positive response, that the Government of
Yemen make a direct request of its own to the GOT. End
Summary.


2. (U) A diplomatic note requesting the GOT to consider
transferring some of its M113 armored personnel carriers
(APC) to Yemen was delivered 8 October to the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs. The Ambassador will also raise the question
personally with the Minister and or other appropriate senior
officials in his next meetings.


3. (S) We do not anticipate a quick or positive response
from the GOT on this request. This is the type of request
that the GOT would take considerable time to consider (weeks
if not months).


4. (S) Our latest information indicates that the Tunisians
have approximately 143 M113s and 100-110 Fiat/OTO Melaras.
Maintenance is problematic due to cost and spare parts. With
three Mechanized Infantry Brigades and a Territorial Group
covering a 1,400 km border, the likelihood of Tunisia giving
up operational equipment when it has repeatedly requested
more equipment from us is minimal.


5. (S) Recommendation: We believe that the request may
have a greater chance of success if our demarche is followed
by a direct request from the Government of Yemen to the GOT.
GODEC