Cabo Verde and LATI at the Battle of the South Atlantic

  • Augusto António Alves Salgado Capitão de Mar e Guerra da Marinha Portuguesa (R). Centro de Investigação Naval da Escola Naval (CINAV-EN). Centro de História da Faculdade de Letras da Universidade de Lisboa (CH-FLUL).
Keywords: Cape Verde, LATI, South Atlantic Battle, Second World War

Abstract

In the years leading up to World War II Italy developed a strategic air link between Rome and Brazil. The air link was strategically important not only to connect the large community of Italian emigrants in South America but also to increase Italian influence in the area. With the war already underway, this connection will also serve as a bridge of passage of spies and classified material between the countries of the Axis and South America. When the United States of America enters the conflict, they force Brazil to shut down the Linee Aeree Transcontinentali Italiane (LATI), operations, which will also occur later on the Island of Sal, with facilities occupied by Portuguese military forces. This study is centered on the events of the island of Sal and based on previously unknown Portuguese and English documentation.

Published
2020-11-24
Issue
Vol 16 No 32 (2020): Revista Navigator - Dossiê A Batalha do Atlântico na costa do Brasil
Section
Dossie