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LOPES TRET b. A Base for Tactical Air Operations: It was empha- sized that ultimate success of the operation will require tactical air operations leading to the establishment of the control of the air over Cuba. In order to fit the pattern of revolution, these operations should be conducted from an air base within territory held by opposition forces. Since it 41s impracticable to undertake construction of an air ‘base in the rainy season and before any air support is avail- able, the territory seized in the original landing mist in- clude an air’strip that Gan “gupport ‘tactical: erations. ce. Slower Tempo: The operation should be so designed that there could be an appreciable period of build up after the initial landing before major offensive action was under- taken. This would allow for a minimm decent interval be- tween the establishment and the recognition by the U.S. of @ provisional government and would fit more closely the pattern of a typical revolution. d. Guerrilla Warfare Alternative: Ideally, the terrain should not only be protected by geography against prompt or well-supported attack from land but also suitable for guerrilla warfare in the event that an organized perimeter could not be held. 2.. Alternative Areas: Five different areas, three of them on the mainland of Cuba and two on islands off the coast, were studied carefully to determine whether they would permit an ¢*