Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (Cuba)

The Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (Spanish: Ministerio de las Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias, MINFAR) is the government ministry of Cuba responsible for the command, administration, and organization of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR). It is one of the most powerful and influential institutions in Cuba, reflecting the historical and ongoing importance of the military in Cuban society and politics.

The MINFAR oversees all branches of the FAR, including the Revolutionary Army (Ejército Revolucionario), the Revolutionary Navy (Marina de Guerra Revolucionaria), and the Revolutionary Air and Air Defense Force (Defensa Anti-Aérea y Fuerza Aérea Revolucionaria, DAAFAR). It is also responsible for military intelligence, internal security, and the training of military personnel.

Historically, the Minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces has been a high-ranking member of the Communist Party of Cuba's Politburo. The Minister is responsible for implementing the military policies of the Cuban government and ensuring the readiness of the FAR to defend the country. Beyond traditional military functions, MINFAR is also known to participate in economic activities, managing various state-owned enterprises. These enterprises contribute to the Cuban economy and provide employment opportunities for both active and retired military personnel. The Ministry plays a significant role in disaster relief and national emergencies, often deploying troops and resources to assist affected populations.

The political control of the FAR is ensured through the Communist Party's presence within the military structure, guaranteeing ideological alignment and loyalty to the revolution. The MINFAR operates under the principle of "defense of the revolution," which encompasses both military preparedness and ideological commitment to the socialist ideals of the Cuban state.