Jakarta, ThedailyID — United States intelligence reportedly accused Cuba of obtaining more than 300 military drones from Russia and Iran in recent years.
According to reports citing classified intelligence documents, Cuban officials allegedly discussed potential plans involving the drones against American military targets, including the US naval base at Guantanamo Bay.
The reports also mentioned possible threats toward US military ships and even the Key West area in Florida.
American officials reportedly expressed growing concern over the rapid development of drone warfare technology near US territory, especially with alleged Iranian military advisers operating in Havana.
“When technology like that exists so close to us, alongside actors ranging from terrorist groups to Iran and Russia, it becomes very concerning,” a senior US official reportedly said.
The allegations surfaced amid rising tensions between Washington and Havana, while geopolitical competition involving Russia and Iran continues intensifying globally.
However, Cuban authorities rejected accusations portraying the country as a security threat to the United States.
Cuban officials argued that every sovereign nation has the right to defend itself under international law and the United Nations Charter.
The claims also reignited comparisons to Cold War-era tensions between the US and Cuba because of the island nation’s close ties with Moscow.
Analysts noted that drone technology has become an increasingly important military tool in modern conflicts, especially after its extensive use in wars across Ukraine and the Middle East.
Despite the intelligence claims, officials have not publicly released detailed evidence regarding the alleged drone stockpile.
