ANTI-FLAK MEASURES AT DIEN BIEN PHU

• Document Type: FOIA
• Collection: FOIA Collection
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): 02627257
• Release Decision: RIFPUB
• Original Classification: U
• Document Page Count: 1
• Document Creation Date: July 13, 2023
• Document Release Date: August 30, 2022
• Case Number: F-2022-01173
• Publication Date: May 12, 1954

Approved for Release: 2022/08/05 CO2627257
CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY
INFORMATION REPORT
This Document contains information affecting the Na-
tional Defense of the United States, within the mean-
ing of Title 18. Sections 793 and 794, of the U.S. Code, as
amended. Its transmission or revelation of its content.a
to or receipt by an unauthorized person is prohibited
by law. The reproduction of this form is prohibited.
SEGRET/O0hTROL U.C. orrimuc ONLY
COUNTRY Indochina
SUBJECT Anti-Flak Measures at Dien Bien Phu
DATE OF INFO. Late April 1954
PLACE ACQUIRED Indochina, Hanoi (30 April 1954)
TN
EVALUA
THE APPRAISAL OP CONTENT IS TENTATIVE,
(FOR KEY SEE REVERSE)
REPORT NO.
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REFERENCES
CS-37548
1May 1954
1
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TRANSMITTED WITIHN THE UNITED
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PD-877
1. French Air Force General De Chaux, commander of the North Tactical Air Headquarters,
has iSsued a secret directive to members of his command. It states that it is
absolutely necessary tO insure the best possible protection agCnst flak during
the day and night as civilian pilots flying for the French Aix Eorce accept risks
but legitmately ask for effective anti-flak action.
2. The following measures are being implemented in De Chaux's command:
a. Bombers will make a preliminary attack on known or probable flak emplacements.
b. Fighters will circle the drop zone at an altitude of 6,000 to 8,000 feet
during dropping.
c. B26's will replace fighters if the latter are weathered in as the protection
of the transports is very important and everything must be done to insure it.
d. Dien Bien Phu defenders will employ artillery and mortar fire to help suppress
flak.
3. Dropping conditions are difficult because of flak and bad visibility due to
haze. Many drops, especially of 105mm shells, were not recovered and some are
in enemy hands. C119 crew a have been asked to bring back loads if they are not,
sure of making a good drop. All crews must announce the nature of their loads
as ground control may take more risks with certain ones.
I. Drops will not be made during daylight without using delayed chutes, fighter or
B26 protection
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Approved for Release: 2022/08/05 CO2627257