Classified intelligence suggests that Cuba has procured over 300 military drones and is contemplating drone strikes on U.S. facilities, particularly the base at Guantanamo Bay and naval vessels, with Key West also in sights.
This news comes as the Trump administration intensifies pressure on Cuba, framing it as a national security risk rather than merely an economic or human rights issue. A senior U.S. official expressed concerns about the drone technology in the hands of Cuba, especially given the presence of Iranian military advisors.
“The proximity of such technologies, alongside various hostile actors like drug cartels and Iranian forces, is alarming,” the official commented.
This alarming piece of information arrives as CIA Director John Ratcliffe visited Cuba to deliver a stern message regarding hostilities. He urged Cuban leaders to abandon their totalitarian approach to alleviate severe U.S. sanctions.
“Cuba must no longer serve as a base for adversaries to propagate threats in our region,” stated the CIA official.
The report also indicates imminent legal actions against Raúl Castro regarding the 1996 shooting down of planes connected to a Miami aid group, suggesting further sanctions could follow.
U.S. officials claim that Cuba has been acquiring various drones from Russia and Iran and storing them strategically. Recent communications indicate Cuba’s desire for more advanced military gear from Russia.
Concerns over espionage have grown, with facilities operated by Russia and China reportedly active in Cuba, focusing on gathering intelligence that could threaten U.S. interests.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth underscored the gravity of the situation during congressional hearings, reiterating the risks posed by foreign adversaries near U.S. shores.
Cuba’s embassy has been tight-lipped, responding with a statement asserting their right to self-defense without denying their drone capabilities.
The connection to Iran’s recent use of drones in warfare adds to a growing apprehension among U.S. officials, who estimate substantial Cuban military involvement in Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, with insights into drone tactics gained in the conflict.
While officials regard these developments as serious, they do not yet consider Cuba an imminent threat. There is, however, significant worry about potential drone warfare should relations continue to sour.
The consensus remains that, while Cuba lacks the capability to control vital shipping routes like Iran does, the sheer proximity of Cuba to the U.S. poses an undeniable risk.
“There’s no fear of a Cuban air force,” the senior official added, emphasizing instead the alarming closeness of the island.
