Is Cuba Planning A Drone Threat? US Intel Flags Possible Strike Plans

Cuba has acquired more than 300 military drones and is reportedly discussing ways to deploy them against US targets.

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The United States has flagged a potential drone threat from Cuba, citing intelligence that the island nation may be considering attacks on the US naval base at Guantanamo Bay, US vessels in nearby waters, and possibly Key West, Florida, just 90 miles from Havana.

According to Axios, Cuba has acquired more than 300 military drones and is reportedly discussing ways to deploy them against US targets.

A senior US official told Axios that the Trump administration views these developments, along with the presence of Iranian military advisers in Havana, as a growing security concern. “When we think about those types of technologies being that close, and a range of bad actors from terror groups to drug cartels to Iranians to the Russians, it’s concerning,”

the official said.

Drone Capabilities

Since 2023, Cuba has been obtaining attack drones of varying capabilities from Russia and Iran. Officials say the drones have been positioned in strategic locations across the island.

Intelligence intercepts also suggest Cuban officials are attempting to learn from Iran’s strategies for resisting US pressure, while Russian and Chinese signals intelligence facilities in Cuba monitor military and communications activity in the region.

Within the past month, Cuba reportedly sought additional drones and military equipment from Russia.

Domestic Preparations

The report comes as Cuba releases a “family guide” advising citizens on how to survive potential enemy attacks. Published on provincial websites, the document titled Protect, Resist, Survive, and Win provides instructions on emergency kits, first aid, and civil defence protocols.

The release comes just days after CIA Director John Ratcliffe made a rare visit to Havana.

Cuba is facing a severe socio-economic crisis, with fuel shortages and widespread power outages prompting protests in Havana. US sanctions and the blockade of Venezuelan fuel deliveries have intensified the island’s difficulties.

(With inputs from agencies)