u.s. ~c-4/9
~aIT ISH WW- lO
 
January 10, 1942
 
JOINT      PLANNING CO~{ITTEE REPORT
           TO
           CHIEFS OF STAFF
 
IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE TO CHINA
 
        1.    The United States War Department has been exploring
methods of in-
    creasing assistance to China so that better effect might be
realized from utilization of that country~s resources against Japan.
Information, currently
available, seems to indicate a definite and progressive weakening,
morally and materially, in China~s war effort. The War Department
regards it as of profound importance that such steps as may be
practicable and are consistent with other commitments be promptly taken
to reverse this trend
 
         2.    The chief obstacle to producing a better military result
in China, aside from a general scarcity of munitions, is that country's
almost complete isolation. Communication with the Generalissimo is
difficult and subject to delay and possible interception    The long~
poorly maintained, and insecure Burma Road can~ at the best, support
only a limited truck tonnage: -- while air raids, confusion and lack of
coordination at Rangoon further limit the amounts of supplies possible
to deliver to the Chinese. Several things are indicated as necessary'
 
                    a.        Closer and more effective liaison with
the Generalissimo
 
          b.                 Increased security for Rangoon and the
Burma Road~ by air and
          ground.
 
             c.    Improvement in the control~ maintenance, and
nmnagement of the Burma Road.
 
        d.  Increase in base facilities and technical services.
 
        e.  Increase in Chinese combat strength resulting from above
measures.
 
            f.    Close and effective liaison between China and the
Commanding General, ABDA Area.
 
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