U.S. Intelligence Concerned About Potential Drone Threat from Cuba, Including Iranian Military Advisers in Havana

WASHINGTON — U.S. intelligence and military officials are increasingly concerned that Cuba could serve as a forward base for drone attacks on American interests, citing the island’s acquisition of hundreds of military drones and the presence of Iranian military advisers in Havana.

According to classified intelligence first reported by Axios, Cuba has acquired more than 300 attack drones of varying capabilities from Russia and Iran since 2023. These systems have been stored in strategic locations across the island. Within the past month, Cuban officials have sought additional drones and equipment from Russia while studying Iranian tactics for resisting U.S. forces.

A senior U.S. defense official told Axios the threat is “real and growing,” noting Cuba’s proximity—just 90 miles from Florida—combined with developments in drone warfare and the presence of Iranian military advisers in Havana. The official highlighted risks from a range of bad actors, including Iranians and Russians, operating so close to U.S. territory.

Officials are particularly concerned about potential targeting of the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay, American military vessels in the region, and possibly Key West, Florida. No specific, imminent attack plot has been publicly confirmed, but the intelligence has elevated Cuba as a national security priority for the Trump administration.

The concerns have intensified amid the ongoing conflict with Iran, where Iranian-designed Shahed-style drones have been used extensively. Cuba’s deepening military ties with Iran, Russia, and China—including Russian warship visits and expanded cooperation—have raised alarms at U.S. Southern Command.

The Trump administration is weighing additional sanctions and other measures to counter the threat. The details were first reported by Axios on May 17, 2026.