Part Two: Construction and Operation

Although the American and Canadian governments shared similar military aims, the Canadians were intent on prioritizing Canadian domestic interests during the construction and operation of these bases. In particular, the Canadian government intended to use Canadian contractors to outfit the bases and ensure that the RCAF and Department of Transport could manage the bases after USAF withdrawal.

At the same time, the Berlin Crisis was unfolding in Europe. These documents also show the escalation of international tensions during construction as these refuelling bases became more strategically important.