The Pentagon on Friday announced the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford and its Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility, citing support for military operations against drug cartels in the Caribbean. The move involves over 6,000 sailors and Marines currently stationed in the region, with the addition of the Ford expected to significantly bolster U.S. military presence.
Assistant to the Secretary of War for Public Affairs Sean Parnell stated the deployment aligns with directives to dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) and counter narco-terrorism. The Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, is currently in port in Split, Croatia, after previously supporting Middle East operations.
The decision comes as U.S. forces continue strikes against suspected drug smuggling vessels, including a recent operation targeting the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. Additional military assets have also been deployed to the Pacific Ocean near Colombia.
The expanded presence aims to enhance capabilities to detect and disrupt illicit activities threatening regional security.
