Recent developments reveal that two US fighter jets were observed in the Gulf of Venezuela, heightening tensions between the United States and Venezuela. The F/A-18 Super Hornets were seen circling near Maracaibo, Venezuela’s second-largest city, on Tuesday at approximately 13:00 local time (17:00 GMT). This tactical maneuver lasted around 40 minutes, as reported through flight tracking data.
Background on US Air Operations
A US defense official characterized the incident as a routine training flight. However, it occurs amid increased US military activity aimed at drug trafficking routes from Venezuela to the US. This context has raised concerns regarding the legality of increased military strikes in the Caribbean, which have reportedly resulted in over 80 fatalities.
Statements from Venezuelan Leadership
The Venezuelan President, Nicolás Maduro, has accused the United States of attempting to destabilize his government. In a recent interview, former President Donald Trump stated that Maduro’s time in power is “numbered,” although he refrained from commenting on the possibility of US troop deployments to Venezuela.
Details of Flight Activities
- Other US aircraft, including an EA-18G Growler, were also tracked near Venezuela’s coastline.
- The F/A-18s operated under callsigns RHINO11 and RHINO12, while the Growler went by GRIZZLY2.
- The F/A-18s came within 20 nautical miles of the coast but purportedly remained in international airspace.
Flight data indicated that these jets conducted several loops in the Gulf of Venezuela. Analysts suggest that these aerial activities may be intended to gather intelligence on Venezuelan defense systems and assess military responses.
Expert Analysis
Justin Crump, a risk consultant, noted that these flights send a signal of US military presence to Venezuela’s leadership. Former RAF Air Marshall Greg Bagwell described the operation as “probing” for defensive capabilities, including radar and missile systems.
US Military Presence in the Region
The US has increased its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying ships, troops, and aircraft, which officials have stated is part of efforts against drug trafficking.
- Recent deployments include the USS Gerald Ford, the largest aircraft carrier.
- Photographic evidence published by US Southern Command showed an F/A-18 operating from this carrier.
- At least nine military vessels have been identified in the region through satellite imagery and ship tracking.
Moreover, the Pentagon has reactivated an airbase in Puerto Rico, previously closed in 2004. Repairs to the Roosevelt Roads base runway have allowed for the deployment of advanced F-35 fighters.
As these tensions and military activities unfold, the international community continues to watch closely how they will influence the geopolitical landscape in the region.
