The United States has confirmed the ongoing deployment of a formidable naval force in the Caribbean, led by the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) alongside the amphibious assault ships USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7), USS San Antonio (LPD-17), and USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD-28).
Dubbed Operation Southern Spear, this mission aims to intercept and halt vessels belonging to the so-called "dark fleet," which are linked to illegal activities and hostile entities in the region, according to the U.S. Department of Defense.
Washington emphasized that this operation aligns with former President Donald Trump's priority to safeguard U.S. territory and ensure the security of the Western Hemisphere. This effort is being coordinated with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of State, and the Department of Justice.
U.S. forces under the Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) continue their patrols in the Caribbean, showcasing America's military capability and deterrence against any illicit trafficking attempts or cooperation with sanctioned regimes in the area.
On January 26, SOUTHCOM reported that U.S. military forces intercepted several sanctioned vessels engaged in illegal oil transport operations within the Caribbean.
The statement noted that these tankers were apprehended "without incident" while operating within a network designed to evade sanctions and finance narco-terrorists and malign actors.
The Department of Defense, along with other federal agencies, reiterated its commitment to stopping all "dark fleet" tankers operating in violation of the quarantine imposed by President Trump on sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean.
SOUTHCOM clarified that these actions are part of the same operation, carried out with the participation of the U.S. Navy, the Fourth Fleet Command (NAVSO/US4THFLT), the Marine Corps (USMC), and the Southern Forces Command (MARFORSOUTH), under direct orders from the White House.
Understanding U.S. Naval Operations in the Caribbean
What is Operation Southern Spear?
Operation Southern Spear is a U.S. naval mission aimed at intercepting vessels linked to illegal activities in the Caribbean, particularly those associated with the "dark fleet."
Which ships are involved in the Caribbean naval deployment?
The deployment includes the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, along with the USS Iwo Jima, USS San Antonio, and USS Fort Lauderdale amphibious assault ships.
What are the goals of this U.S. naval operation?
The primary goals are to intercept illegal vessels, deter illicit trafficking, and prevent cooperation with sanctioned regimes in the region.