The Falklands: Sky Spies

TWO days before Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands on April 2, the Soviet Union launched Cosmos 1345 and Cosmos 1346, two satellites programmed to monitor military activity in the area. The Soviets had apparently detected preparations for the attack through their regular intelligence network. Since then, the Soviets have launched at least six other reconnaissance satellites in orbits that take them over the South Atlantic, where they can watch both Argentine and British military movements. The intelligence-gathering space vehicles perform various functions. Two were put up to intercept communications. Two others were...

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