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According to multiple sources, there has been intense activity by US military forces in the Caribbean Sea, including aerial tankers (e.g. KC-46 Pegasus), AWACS systems (e.g. E-3 Sentry) and electronic reconnaissance (ELINT/SIGINT, e.g. Rivet Joint) aircraft.
This activity is part of a broader US military deployment in the region, which is officially focused on fighting drug cartels (e.g. Tren de Aragua), but raises concerns about escalating tensions with Venezuela.
Air activity: Many tankers were observed flying with transponders turned off (for stealth mode), likely supporting fighter jets (e.g. F-35). AWACS and two electronic reconnaissance aircraft entered the SOUTHCOM area.
These observations come from real-time aircraft tracking and reports of "intense air activity over Caribbean waters."
The deployment includes 8 warships, 4,500 troops, F-35 stealth fighters, submarines and special forces. In recent days, the US has carried out strikes on suspected drug ships, killing at least 14 people, and Venezuela has responded with military exercises.
The presence of ELINT/SIGINT aircraft suggests intelligence gathering, likely focused on Venezuela and regional threats.
A large number of air-refueling tankers, likely dragging jets, are operating with their transponders off. AWACS and two specific ELINT/SIGINT planes have also entered the SOUTHCOM arena.
MORE:
Special warfare support vessel MV "Ocean Trader" has arrived in the Caribbean waters with its AIS turned off.
