WHAT IMPACT DID THE BATTLE OF CUITO CUANAVALE HAVE ON SOUTH AFRICA AND CUBA? Study Sources 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D and answer the questions that follow - NSC History - Question 2 - 2020 - Paper 1

The two military forces identified in the source are the Angolan MPLA and the Cuban forces. These forces worked collaboratively to outmaneuver the SADF and hinder their retreat options.

The SADF's air wing struggled to defeat the Cuban air force for several reasons. Firstly, the Cuban air force possessed superior technology and modern aircraft, which allowed them to challenge South Africa's air capabilities effectively. Furthermore, the SADF’s operations were limited by ineffective radar and missile systems, which left them vulnerable to attacks. This technological gap was a significant factor in the SADF's inability to assert dominance in the air.

Three reasons prompting South Africa to withdraw from Cuito Cuanavale include: 1) The heavy casualties and loss of conscripts, 2) The negative impact on South Africa's economy, and 3) The overall assessment of diminished military objectives in the region.

According to the source, the leader of South Africa during the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale was P.W. Botha.

The source indicates that the South African leadership acknowledged the situation by realizing the need to negotiate for peace, highlighting their acceptance of a truce in the face of mounting pressures.

This statement implies that after years of diplomatic efforts, Chester Crocker was finally able to mediate a peace agreement that addressed the interests of South Africa, Cuba, and Angola. It suggests that the prolonged conflict had reached a point where all parties recognized the necessity of establishing a lasting peace in the region.

The two issues closely linked to the peace and security of the south-western front of Angola were the stability of the Namibian independence process and the overarching goal of maintaining territorial integrity in Angola.

Independence, in the context of Angola, refers to the right of the people of Angola to govern themselves without foreign intervention, ensuring that their sovereignty is respected and upheld.

Oliva's statement implies that the Cuban contingent had effectively achieved its objectives in Angola, contributing significantly to the country's stability and security during a pivotal period.

The United Nations Organisation played a crucial role during the peace negotiations in Angola by acting as a mediator to facilitate discussions between the conflicting parties. Their involvement helped to ensure that the various stakeholders were able to come together in pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.