Recent reports suggest a growing intelligence presence for China in Cuba, raising concerns about potential surveillance of the United States. A report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) points to four key locations in Cuba that exhibit characteristics consistent with signals intelligence (SIGINT) gathering operations. While both Chinese and Cuban officials deny these claims, the CSIS report provides detailed analysis based on satellite imagery and open-source information.
The report highlights several sites of interest, focusing on four that show signs of recent upgrades despite Cuba's economic challenges. These upgrades coincide with Cuba's increasing reliance on China for economic support. The report's authors emphasize the presence of "observable SIGINT instrumentation," security infrastructure, and other indicators of intelligence activities at these locations.
(CSIS/Hidden Reach)
One site, Bejucal, located near Havana, has a history dating back to the Cuban Missile Crisis. Previously used by the Soviet Union, this site has reportedly seen renewed activity, with satellite imagery suggesting ongoing operations. The site features multiple underground entrances and an array of antennas, potentially capable of intercepting satellite communications. Given its proximity to Florida, concerns exist about its potential use to monitor U.S. rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
Another location, east of Santiago de Cuba, is reportedly undergoing construction of a substantial radio signal detection system with a range potentially extending thousands of nautical miles. This capability raises further questions about its intended purpose and potential targets.
(CSIS/Hidden Reach )
(CSIS/Hidden Reach/Maxar 2024)
Cuba's history of hosting foreign intelligence operations, including Soviet SIGINT facilities during the Cold War, adds context to these recent developments. The growing economic ties between China and Cuba, with billions of dollars in Chinese development financing, further complicate the situation. This report highlights the evolving geopolitical landscape and the potential for increased tensions between the U.S. and China in the Caribbean region.
