Prior to World War II

The Japanese became part of an alliance which included Germany and Italy in 1937 and it was quickly understood that a buildup of military forces was in the best interest of the Philippines. General Douglas MacArthur was drafted out of retirement and at his request the United States started pouring military equipment into the islands. MacArthur specifically wanted more airplanes especially the latest in the inventory. At first the United States government filled the requests but later on getting a priority in arms shipments was difficult.

Several months prior to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor a strategic policy was adopted with respect to the United States priority of effort. Should it be forced into war against the Axis powers of Germany and Italy and simultaneously find itself at war with Japan, where would the priorities fall? The policy was that the stronger European enemy would be defeated first.