U.S. Deploys 10 F-35 Jets to Puerto Rico to Tackle Drug Cartels

The U.S. Department of Defense has ordered the deployment of ten F-35 stealth fighter jets to Puerto Rico to bolster efforts against drug cartels operating in the region. This action, announced on September 5, 2025, comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance security and combat illicit drug trafficking.

The F-35s will be stationed at the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, allowing for rapid response capabilities against criminal organizations that have been increasingly active in the Caribbean. The presence of these advanced aircraft aims to deter cartel operations and assist local law enforcement agencies in their ongoing fight against drug-related crime.

Drug trafficking has long posed a significant challenge in Puerto Rico, with cartels exploiting the island"s geography for smuggling routes. Recent reports indicate a surge in violence linked to drug disputes, prompting the federal government to take decisive action. The deployment of these jets follows similar initiatives aimed at strengthening national security in regions affected by organized crime.

This deployment is expected to enhance aerial surveillance and support joint operations between U.S. military forces and local authorities. As previously reported, the U.S. has been increasingly focused on addressing drug trafficking as a critical national security issue, underscoring the importance of these recent developments in military strategy.

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