Navy Buildup Continues in the Caribbean 

November 18, 2025
DOD/Pentagon | On Base

The USS Gerald R. Ford, the nation’s largest aircraft carrier, arrived in the Caribbean Sea over the weekend, continuing to bolster the military presence near Venezuela. The warship’s presence serves to support the anti-drug smuggling operation under the name “Operation Southern Spear,” according to the Trump administration. 

The operation now involves about 12,000 Navy sailors and Marines, Military Times reported, putting pressure on Venezuela. Both sides have been conducting military training exercises. 

Operation Southern Spear has led to 20 strikes against boats labeled as “narco-terrorists” in the region, according to Defense Scoop. 

Photo courtesy of the Coast Guard 

November 18, 2025
DOD/Pentagon | On Base

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