WASINGTON — In a proactive response to narcoterrorism threats, the U.S. military has escalated its presence in the Caribbean Sea and the waters off Venezuela. This deployment commenced earlier this summer, aligning with the Trump administration's strategy to combat drug trafficking and enhance regional security. Currently, there are eight warships deployed in the region, consisting of three destroyers, three amphibious assault ships, a cruiser, and a littoral combat ship designed for intracoastal operations. The amphibious assault ships are equipped with a Marine expeditionary unit, providing them the capacity to transport troops and conduct strikes using advanced helicopters, tilt-rotor aircraft, and jets.
Although specific numbers have not been disclosed, military ships typically maintain missile capabilities, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, allowing them to engage targets hundreds of miles away. Additionally, the USS Newport News submarine is operational in South America, enhancing the U.S. naval capabilities in the region.
On the air side, advanced F-35B Lightning II jets have been deployed to Puerto Rico, noticed landing on the island in mid-September. These have been accompanied by MQ-9 Reaper drones, recognized for their long operational range and missile capabilities. The Navy has also utilized P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and an AC-130J Ghostrider has been seen in Puerto Rico.
Overall, the U.S. military maintains a force exceeding 6,000 sailors and Marines in this strategic operation, with additional aircraft and personnel supporting these efforts, reflecting a significant escalation in military readiness in response to narcotrafficking and regional instability.
Although specific numbers have not been disclosed, military ships typically maintain missile capabilities, including Tomahawk cruise missiles, allowing them to engage targets hundreds of miles away. Additionally, the USS Newport News submarine is operational in South America, enhancing the U.S. naval capabilities in the region.
On the air side, advanced F-35B Lightning II jets have been deployed to Puerto Rico, noticed landing on the island in mid-September. These have been accompanied by MQ-9 Reaper drones, recognized for their long operational range and missile capabilities. The Navy has also utilized P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and an AC-130J Ghostrider has been seen in Puerto Rico.
Overall, the U.S. military maintains a force exceeding 6,000 sailors and Marines in this strategic operation, with additional aircraft and personnel supporting these efforts, reflecting a significant escalation in military readiness in response to narcotrafficking and regional instability.
