Author: La Tabla/Data Journalism Platform 16 NOV 2025
Context and Milestone
On Friday, November 14, three months have passed since the deployment of the America’s Rapid Response Force, consisting of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (SOC), from the Norfolk naval base in Virginia to the southern Caribbean Sea. The operation was announced as part of efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.
Assets and Deployment Logistics
The expeditionary force included:
– 🚢 USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) – amphibious assault flagship.
– 🚢 USS San Antonio (LPD-17) – troop and equipment transport amphibious ship.
– 🚢 USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD-28) – landing and logistics support vessel.
– ✈️ 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (SOC) – with air, land, and amphibious capabilities.
The journey from Norfolk to the southern Caribbean spans over 2,000 km. At an average speed of 20 knots (≈37 km/h), the transit of the amphibious vessels would require about three days of continuous navigation, highlighting the mobility and rapid deployment capabilities of such formations.
Operational Results
During the past three months, the following has been reported:
– Maritime interdictions on illicit trafficking routes.
– Seizures of illegal shipments, primarily drugs.
– Deterrent patrols in strategic areas of the Caribbean.
These results have been presented as part of an effort to reduce drug circulation and strengthen regional maritime security.
Regional Impact and Expectations in Venezuela
The announcement of the deployment created various expectations among social and political sectors in Venezuela:
– Some interpreted it as an external pressure factor amid political and economic tensions.
– Others viewed it as an element of international cooperation aimed at combating drug trafficking and its transnational effects.
The diverse perceptions reflect how a single military event can be understood in terms of regional security or internal political dynamics.
Assessment and Projection
Three months later, the deployment is remembered as an exercise in projecting power and multinational coordination, with visible effects on the dynamics of the Caribbean. Beyond immediate results, the operation leaves a mark of:
– The logistical capacity of expeditionary forces.
– The impact on illicit drug trafficking routes.
– The political relevance this acquires in neighboring countries, such as Venezuela, where it relates to debates on sovereignty, security, and international cooperation.
#ForTheRecord: This publication is based solely on the official statements regarding the purpose of this naval deployment. Any bias, whether geopolitical, ideological or narrative, has been strictly avoided.