Status of Soviet Submarine Support Facilities at Cienfuegos, Cuba.

This document, dated November 1970, discusses the status of Soviet submarine support facilities in Cienfuegos, Cuba. It notes that the presence of a Soviet subtender in Cuban waters, along with associated facilities, provides the Soviets with the capability to replenish and provide limited upkeep for nuclear-powered submarines. The facilities in the protected naval basin allow for mooring and support activities. The document mentions the removal of anti-aircraft and field artillery pieces and ongoing construction activities in the Cienfuegos area.

The Soviet capability for nuclear submarine support at Cienfuegos is limited. While the subtender can perform maintenance and minor repairs, it lacks facilities for major repairs and handling ballistic missiles. The document states that the support capability is less than what is available to U.S. Polaris submarines at Holy Loch. The primary value of the facilities would be in extending the on-station time of nuclear-powered attack submarines and providing recreation facilities.

The document notes that there is no firm evidence on whether the Soviets intend to establish a submarine support facility at Cienfuegos. However, as long as the subtender remains in the area, the Soviets retain the capability to support nuclear-powered submarines. The document also mentions that there are currently no known Soviet submarines in or near the Caribbean.

The memorandum recommends that the attached memorandum to the President be signed, summarizing the status of Soviet submarine support facilities in Cienfuegos.

Overall, the document provides an assessment of the Soviet submarine support capabilities in Cienfuegos, highlighting the limitations and potential value of the facilities.