The Soviet Military Buildup in Cuba

Publication Date: June 1982

Publisher: Heritage Foundation (Washington, D.C.)

Author(s): Christopher Whalen

Research Area: International relations

Keywords: Latin American

Type: Report

Coverage: Cuba

Abstract:

Over the past decade, the Soviet Union has been emplacing offensive weapons in Cuba. Based both in and around Cuba, on planes, ships, and missiles, these weapons are operated by members of the Soviet armed forces. Soviet warships conduct exercises in the Gulf of Mexico, their bombers fly reconnaissance missions along the Atlantic coast from airfields in Cuba, and their pilots operate "Cuban" fighter aircraft. The presence of these offensive strategic systems in Cuba threatens the basic foundation of U.S. security policy in the region.