U.S. military presence near Cuba reaches second-largest level worldwide

The U.S. Department of Defence has spent months moving troops and weapons into position near Cuba, according to a report published by Politico.

Naval deployments In May the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier group arrived in the Caribbean along with guided-missile destroyers. Flight-tracking data show increased U.S. drone and surveillance flights around the island in recent months. The Pentagon's regional force is described as slightly smaller than the force assembled before the Venezuela operation earlier this year.

Official statements A defence official told Politico that repeated long deployments are creating maintenance concerns for ships and crews. Retired Marine Corps officer Joe Plenzler said extended deployments could affect retention. Mark Cancian, a senior analyst at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies, told Politico the carrier group's presence is likely intended for intimidation but could support operations if required.

The same official noted that many large warships are approaching ten months at sea and that further extensions risk equipment problems once vessels return to port.