-
The U.S. military demonstrates force near Venezuela: a bomber and advanced patrol aircraft over the Caribbean
© Flightradar.com American military aircraft are currently operating off the coast of Venezuela, including the strategic bomber B-52H Stratofortress, advanced E-2D Advanced Hawkeye planes, and F/A-18 Super Hornet fighters. The unusual air traffic signals increased tension in the region and suggests a possible preparation for further U.S. operations. Nearby, a private plane simultaneously took off heading toward the border with Colombia. It eventually landed at La Chinita airport, a short distance from the Colombian border.
According to the Pentagon, the current operations aim to "support security in the region and ensure the protection of American interests in accordance with international law." A spokesperson for the armed forces clarified to The War Zone:
"The planned operations in the area are a response to developments in the security situation and also serve as a demonstration of the readiness of U.S. forces to respond to any escalation."
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft are used by militaries to coordinate air operations and monitor a wide area, including the detection of low-flying targets and the control of combat missions. They are advanced early warning aircraft. They are equipped with modern radars and avionics that allow tracking thousands of objects and coordinating air operations at distances of hundreds of kilometers
The B-52H Stratofortress is a multi-role strategic bomber capable of long-range flights with a high payload capacity for conventional and nuclear weapons. The specific aircraft with the call sign "Pappy11" is listed among the U.S. Air Force's active aircraft in the region
F/A-18 Super Hornet aircraft serve as multi-role fighters for air combat, ground attacks, and escort missions. They can also perform reconnaissance or be used for electronic warfare. Two Super Hornets are escorting the B-52H bomber, and two more are operating in the coastal area in cyclic patrols over the sea
The U.S. military has been increasing its presence in the Caribbean in recent weeks. Analysts link this to growing tensions between the United States and the Venezuelan regime and to counter-narcotics operations in the region. A Pentagon spokesperson told foreign media that "all movements are carried out in open cooperation with partners and in accordance with international rules"Other flight activities
A private 1124 Westwind 2 aircraft took off from Venezuela heading toward the Colombian border. This aircraft is associated with private transport as well as riskier passenger movements in unstable areas.
At the same time, a Conviasa commercial airliner was diverted from Moscow to Porlamar (Venezuela ) to an airport in Caracas.