It is completely plausible, as a counter to potential Russian moves.
Back in July, it was reported that the Russians were negotiating with Cuba for basing rights, for a naval maintenance and supply center, as well as airfield basing rights.
They are also talking to Vietnam about a partial reopening of the Cam Ranh base, and to the Seychelles about basing rights in the Indiana Ocean.
http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/news/2012/07/27/navy-chief-says-russia-wants-naval-bases-abroad/