</s>104-10306-10005 2025 RELEASE UNDER THE PRESIDENT JOHN F. KENNEDY ASSASSINATION RECORDS ACT OF 1992 Speer Sip Fler 26 March 1963 MEMORANDUM FOR THE RECORD D SUBJECT: Notes on Special Group Meeting, 26 March 1963 1. (Low-level reconnaissance of Cuba. Comparative result of high- 98 level versatile low-level photography were demonstrated by Mr. Lundahl. After considerable dissectioning, it was decided that the matter would be held in aberdeable dissection, pending further developments on the Donovan matter. In general, Gipartic's attitude was against low- level on the basis of Defense intelligence needs, but would agree to state state periodic low- levels would establish "right" of access" Johnson expressed general objection at this time. McCone expressed with prevaluing viewpoints within CIA, but recommencing proceeding with low level. Bundy agreed to put " the matter to higher authority for final decision. McCONE suggested he was willing to accept responsibility for further delay. Action: Matter to be considered each week7" 2. (Reconnaissance of 1958 State, Defense, and Bundy all opposed overlying Indonesia. McCOne recommended we support the British effort and it was agreed that the Matter would be put to higher authority for decision. 7 98 3. (Monthly Report of NROs were reviewed. McCcone reported to detail on the failure of recent CORONA shots; specifically referred to failures of January, February, and March, and the fact that November and December were not usually objective of good photography. He advised Special Group that new estimates of Soviet capability could not be made until the failure was not accurately conducted for July 30th to 30th of March, He advised that the flight was scheduled for July 31st to October, and that he advised will be a standard CORONa. Gilbertatic reported that adequate emergency back-up arrangements were scheduled for August 30th and 30th respectively. He had advised in the last 90 days would not be recurring. McCone reported the difficulties incurred with the U-2 generators and brushes and the facts that this had caused a standoff of flights in the Far East, but not in Cuba. Condition was reported as having been cor- rected and the North Korean, North China flight is on a weather alert. 3/mc

Summary  
The document details meetings of the Special Group (5412) from March to September 1963, focusing on U.S. covert operations, reconnaissance missions, and intelligence activities in Cuba, Laos, North Vietnam, South Vietnam, North Korea, China, British Guiana, and Spain. Discussions include low-level reconnaissance over Cuba, sabotage planning against Cuban targets, covert actions in the Congo and Bolivia, assessments of Soviet capabilities, and challenges with CORONA satellite imagery and U-2 reconnaissance missions. Concerns about operational security, intelligence leaks, and political risks in regions like Laos and North Vietnam are highlighted. The text references CIA Director John A. McCone, National Security Advisor McGeorge Bundy, and other officials, emphasizing strategic approvals and security considerations.  

Key People  
- John A. McCone (CIA Director)  
- McGeorge Bundy (National Security Advisor)  
- Alexis Johnson (Assistant Secretary of State)  
- Desmond Fitzgerald (Special Affairs Staff Chief)  
- Bruce B. Cheever (Acting Chief, Special Affairs Staff)  
- General Carter (military liaison)  

Key Locations  
- Cuba  
- Laos  
- North Vietnam  
- South Vietnam  
- North Korea  
- China (Sino-Indian border)  
- British Guiana  
- Spain  

Key Events  
- Approval of low-level reconnaissance missions over Cuba and other regions.  
- Planning for sabotage operations against Cuban targets, including infiltration-exfiltration strategies.  
- Covert action planning in the Congo and Bolivia.  
- Review of CORONA satellite imagery failures and U-2 reconnaissance challenges.  
- Discussions on political risks associated with covert operations in Laos and North Vietnam.  
- Emphasis on reinforcing security measures to prevent leaks related to Cuban operations.  

Key Organizations  
- Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)  
- Special Group (5412)  
- Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS)  
- U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)  
- State Department  
- National Security Council (NSC)

JFK Declassified Files

104-10306-10003.pdf

Document Summary

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