China is in America’s backyard. Thanks to new satellite images, we get a closer look at Chinese spy bases inside Cuba. Concerns have been growing for years about the increasing cooperation between Cuba and the Chinese Communist Party. Recent developments, including direct flights and visa-free travel for Chinese tourists to Cuba, have only heightened these concerns. But the most alarming revelation comes from the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS), which has identified multiple Chinese spy bases on the island. This article delves into the details and implications of these findings.
Key Takeaways
- New satellite images reveal multiple Chinese spy bases in Cuba.
- These bases pose a significant threat to US military operations in Florida and the Caribbean.
- The bases are equipped with advanced SIGINT and ELINT capabilities.
- The US government is aware but has yet to take decisive action.
The Revelation: Chinese Spy Bases in Cuba
We’ve known for a while that China has been active in Cuba. However, new satellite images released by CSIS have confirmed the existence of no fewer than four Chinese spy bases on the island. This is particularly concerning given the proximity of these bases to several important US military installations in Florida, which is just under 100 miles to the north.
The Bejucal Base: A Hub for SIGINT
One of the most significant bases is located in Bejucal, near the Cuban capital. This base appears to be devoted to SIGINT (signals intelligence), which involves monitoring electronic signals and systems such as radar, communications networks, and weapons systems. The Bejucal base hosts warehouses, vehicle and maintenance storage facilities, housing, and administration headquarters for personnel. Critically, it also contains several areas for antenna and dish antenna technology, essential for its spying activities.
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The El Salao Base: Strategic Vantage Point
Another base, El Salao, is located just east of Santiago de Cuba. This base features a control building and foundations for up to sixteen antennas. It also has three concentric circles around it, which could house future installations for antennas and reflectors. This base provides China with a highly strategic vantage point near Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, a key regional US military base. Once operational, this base would enhance air and maritime awareness in the region, posing a serious risk to US and allied operations.










