Question

As part of the strategy to gain more information about the Cuban missile sites, low level flights are authorized by the President. What does Kenny O'Donnell (Kevin Costner) tell the pilot he must not do and why does he say this?

A. Cross the Cuban airspace boundary, as it may provoke a military response and escalate tensions.
B. Descend below a certain altitude to avoid radar detection and potential interception.
C. Communicate with air traffic control to maintain a cover story and avoid suspicion.
D. Fly over the missile sites directly to gather more detailed intelligence.

Answer 1

Kenny O'Donnell instructs the pilot not to cross the Cuban airspace boundary to avoid provoking a military response and escalating tensions during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of the Cuban Missile Crisis, Kenny O'Donnell (Kevin Costner) tells the pilot that he must not cross the Cuban airspace boundary. The reason for this instruction is to prevent any act that might provoke a military response from Cuba or escalate tensions further, potentially leading to a military confrontation or nuclear war. O'Donnell's cautionary advice reflects the sensitive nature of the reconnaissance missions and the broader strategy of President Kennedy to carefully manage the crisis without triggering a conflict.