Against The Odds
Himalayan Spy Mission | Back to the Mountains with Pete Takeda | 4
Mar 7, 2023
Outdoor writer Pete Takeda discusses his investigation into a covert CIA operation in the Himalayas. Topics include a daring mission to install a spy device on a peak, the challenges faced by climbers, contrasting expeditions, decision-making in mountaineering, and the search for a lost spy device.
34:30
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Quick takeaways
- The CIA's mission in the Himalayas involved placing a spy device on Nandadevi to monitor China's nuclear program.
- The climbers faced extreme challenges climbing Nandadevi, dealing with high altitudes, severe weather, and technical difficulties.
Deep dives
CIA Mission to Spy on China's Nuclear Program
A joint CIA and Indian intelligence team aimed to place a spying device on Nandadevi, a Himalayan peak, to monitor China's nuclear program. Despite a failed storm-battered attempt on Nandadevi, a successful mission was conducted on Nandakat. Climber Pete Takeda's book, 'An Eye at the Top of the World', uncovers the Cold War operation involving climbers.
