Cuba, Republic. A Basic Paratrooper Badge

(Insignia de Paracaidista basica) constructed of gilt metal with blue, white, and red enamel, the face depicting a parachutist descending beneath a parachute canopy surmounted by the Cuban national flag, reverse screw back attachment intact with original screw disc present, measuring 21.2 mm x 45.9 mm.

The badge is in good condition, with small cracks present to the white enamel field.

Footnote: This Cuban paratrooper badge dates from the 1980s and was worn by qualified airborne personnel of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba. The design incorporates the Cuban national flag above a descending parachutist beneath a stylized parachute canopy, reflecting the insignia style used by Cuban airborne and special troops during the Cold War period. Cuban airborne forces expanded significantly during the latter half of the 20th century, particularly during Cuba’s overseas military involvement in Africa, including Angola and Ethiopia.