The United States has strategically deployed 10 of its most advanced F-35 fighter jets to bolster operations against drug cartels in the Caribbean. Confirmed by Fox News, this move aims to intensify the fight against narcotics trafficking that fuels the drug crisis within U.S. borders.
Stationed in Puerto Rico, these F-35 jets will serve as a strategic asset in anti-narcotics missions, providing intelligence, reconnaissance, and deterrence capabilities against transnational criminal organizations. The F-35 is known for its "stealth" or "low observability" design, which makes it difficult for enemy radar to detect. This advanced aircraft employs specific angles, radar-absorbing coatings, and internal integration of sensors and weaponry to minimize its electromagnetic and thermal signature. This stealth technology significantly complicates an adversary's ability to locate and intercept the aircraft.
This deployment marks one of Washington's most significant military strategies to curb illicit trafficking routes traversing the region. It is part of a broader national security initiative linking the fight against drug cartels with the internal stability of the United States. Through this action, the U.S. sends a powerful message to criminal groups operating in the Caribbean and reaffirms its commitment to halting the flow of drugs into its territory.
Tensions Rise Between U.S. and Venezuela
On Friday, Venezuelan jets provocatively flew over the USS Jason Dunham destroyer, according to the Pentagon, aiming to disrupt U.S. Navy anti-narcotics and counter-terrorism operations in the Caribbean. These maneuvers escalate tensions between the two countries amid mutual accusations related to drug trafficking and regional security.
During a rare press conference in Caracas, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro accused the United States of "seeking regime change through military threats." The USS Jason Dunham is part of a fleet of at least seven U.S. warships stationed in the Caribbean, comprising over 4,500 marines and sailors.
Simultaneously, troops from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit have been conducting amphibious training and flight operations in southern Puerto Rico. Earlier this week, a U.S. military strike in the Caribbean resulted in the death of 11 individuals and the sinking of a Venezuelan vessel allegedly involved in drug trafficking.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth defended the operation, stating that "the poisoning of the American people ends now."
Key Insights on U.S. Military Operations in the Caribbean
Why did the U.S. deploy F-35 jets to the Caribbean?
The U.S. deployed F-35 jets to intensify operations against drug cartels in the Caribbean, aiming to combat narcotics trafficking that impacts the U.S. drug crisis.
What makes the F-35 aircraft "stealth"?
The F-35 is considered a "stealth" aircraft due to its low observability design, which includes specific angles, radar-absorbing coatings, and internal sensor and weaponry integration to minimize its radar and thermal signature.
How has Venezuela reacted to U.S. military actions in the Caribbean?
Venezuela has reacted provocatively, with its jets flying over a U.S. Navy destroyer, and Venezuelan President Maduro accusing the U.S. of seeking regime change through military threats.