Puerto Rico becomes key U.S. military hub for counter-narcotics operations

Puerto Rico has been designated as a strategic hub and forward operating base for the U.S. military, facilitating strike and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations in support of the expanding counter-narcotics mission. This development includes the deployment of various military assets across the island.

The U.S. Air Force has stationed MQ-9 Reaper drones at Borinquen, while the U.S. Marine Corps has established an F-35B squadron at Roosevelt Roads. Additionally, U.S. Navy surface combatants are operating out of the Port of Ponce, and P-8A Poseidon aircraft are based at Muñiz. The U.S. Coast Guard has also positioned cutters in San Juan.

This strategic positioning underscores Puerto Rico"s role as a critical component in the Southern Command"s operations. For more information on recent developments in military deployments, see related coverage.