These instructions describe the purposes and required conduct of a Soviet survey group that went to Cuba under cover as agricultural specialists in July 1962.  The advanced survey group was tasked with finding suitable locations for Soviet missiles as well as reporting on the effects that Cuba's tropical climate may have on Soviet equipment.

Malinovsky confirms that vehicles suitable for tropical environments will be supplied by July 10, 1962.

Malinovsky orders Pliev to load all tactical nuclear weapons on the ship “Atkarsk” and return them to the Soviet Union

Malinovsky informs Pliev that withdrawal of Luna missiles, FKR [cruise missiles] and IL-28 airplanes has not been discussed and they will probably be left in Cuba under his command.

Malinovsky sends Pliev a timeline for transfer of weapons to the Cubans.

Malinovsky orders Pliev to load R-12 warheads onto the Alexandrovsk for return to the Soviet Union.

Malinovsky orders Pliev not to dispatch fighter aircraft in order to avoid collisions with US reconnaissance planes.

Malinovsky tells Pliev he was "too hasty" for shooting down a US U-2 spy plane and instructs him to dismantle and remove R-12s missiles.

Malinovsky instructs Pliev to send the ship “Alexandrovsk” accompanied by steamship “Bratsk” to the Soviet Union.