On 11/12, a US official announced that F-35A fighters from the Vermont Air National Guard's 158th Fighter Wing had arrived in the Caribbean for an anti-drug operation. The official did not specify the number or arrival time of the F-35A fighters in Puerto Rico, but indicated they would likely be stationed at Roosevelt Roads base, approximately 800 km north of Venezuela. This deployment marks the latest US force buildup in the region, increasing pressure on Venezuela. Some US Marine Corps F-35B fighters and E/A-18G electronic warfare aircraft had been deployed to this airfield earlier.

F-35A fighter at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, 5/2024. *Photo: USAF*

This marks the first time the US has deployed the F-35A, a variant capable of carrying 900 kg guided bombs, to the Caribbean Sea. F-35B fighters currently operating there carry a maximum of 450 kg of weapons, and their range and maneuverability are inferior to the F-35A.

The US military also deployed search and rescue aircraft to Puerto Rico, including HC-130J planes and HH-60W helicopters. KC-135 refueling aircraft are operating from the Dominican Republic, while KC-46 aircraft have flown multiple missions from the US Virgin Islands in recent months.

Howard Altman and Tyler Rogoway, editors at the military news site War Zone, stated that deploying search and rescue aircraft to the region "is a sign that President Donald Trump's administration could significantly increase pressure on Venezuela, as well as attack drug gangs operating within its territory." According to the two editors, HC-130J and HH-60W aircraft are essential for combat search and rescue operations for downed pilots, especially in areas of engagement, due to their specialized equipment and dedicated crews.

US HC-130J aircraft at Roosevelt Roads base, Puerto Rico, on 11/12. *Photo: Reuters*

"The Pentagon is shifting to a much more thorough state of preparation for operations in other countries' airspace, compared to just a few days ago," Rogoway assessed. However, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt affirmed on 11/12 that President Trump does not want to see a prolonged conflict in Venezuela; instead, he aims to end drug trafficking into the US.

Location of Puerto Rico and Venezuela. *Graphic: Britanica*

The US military began an anti-drug operation in the Caribbean Sea in early September, deploying a significant force to the region. This included the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, at least eight surface ships, one special operations support ship, one attack submarine, F-35B stealth fighters, AC-130 gunships, transport aircraft, drones, and over 15,000 troops.

President Nicolas Maduro believes the mobilization of forces indicates a US intention for regime change in Venezuela. President Trump announced on 2/12 that he would order attacks on drug criminals on land, rather than just targeting suspected drug boats at sea. He also affirmed that any country transporting drugs to the US could be attacked, including Venezuela.

Nguyen Tien (According to War Zone, AFP, AP)