On Saturday, U.S. Marines undertook maritime interdiction exercises in the Caribbean Sea, performing rapid rope descents from a UH-1Y Venom helicopter onto the amphibious ship USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28). This tactical drill is part of the larger Southern Spear Operation.
According to the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), the operation aims to combat illegal activities in the area, executed in partnership with U.S. civilian agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice.
These exercises are taking place amidst heightened political tensions between Washington and Havana, following increased U.S. pressure on Cuba and the lack of a formal bilateral dialogue channel, as highlighted in recent statements.
In recent months, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez has publicly criticized the presence and actions of U.S. forces in the Caribbean, labeling them as a threat to regional peace, according to media reports.
The released footage of the drill showcases a tactical team and Marines descending from a UH-1Y Venom during a maritime interception exercise aboard the USS Fort Lauderdale in the Caribbean.
SOUTHCOM has linked these actions to maritime security and interdiction operations under Southern Spear, framing them as part of an initiative to dismantle illicit networks in the Western Hemisphere.
In January 2026, the Command reaffirmed its dedication to Western Hemisphere security through Southern Spear, a military strategy aimed at bolstering U.S. presence in the Caribbean and sending a warning to regional governments like those of Cuba and Venezuela.
In an official statement, the organization emphasized that the deployed forces were acting under the directives of President Donald Trump and the Department of Defense, with the mission to disrupt drug trafficking and counter influences deemed hostile in the region.
In early February, Washington confirmed the continuation of a significant naval deployment in the Caribbean, led by the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford and several amphibious assault ships including the USS Iwo Jima, USS San Antonio, and USS Fort Lauderdale.
Authorities indicated that the operation seeks to intercept vessels of the so-called "dark fleet," involved in illicit activities and the transport of sanctioned oil from Venezuela to Cuba.
The Department of Defense emphasized that this measure is part of the Western Hemisphere defense policy and a priority for the Trump administration to secure the region against transnational threats.
U.S. Military Presence and Policy in the Caribbean
What is the purpose of the Southern Spear Operation?
The Southern Spear Operation aims to combat illegal activities in the Caribbean by dismantling illicit networks and enhancing U.S. military presence in the region.
How has Cuba reacted to U.S. military exercises in the Caribbean?
Cuba, through its Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez, has criticized the U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, viewing it as a threat to regional peace.
Which U.S. agencies are involved in the Southern Spear Operation?
The Southern Spear Operation involves the U.S. Southern Command, Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Justice, among others.