U.S. forces executed a targeted strike on November 13, 2025, against a narcotics vessel in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of three suspected narco-terrorists. This operation, confirmed by the U.S. Southern Command, marks a significant escalation in efforts to combat transnational criminal networks operating in international waters.
According to reports, the vessel was linked to a designated terrorist organization involved in drug smuggling. The recent strike raises the total number of suspected narco-terrorists killed in the ongoing campaign to 82, with three survivors, as stated by U.S. officials. The campaign is part of a broader initiative aimed at dismantling networks that threaten regional stability and U.S. security.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced the launch of Operation Southern Spear, designed to target narco-terrorist activities throughout Latin America. In a message posted on X, Hegseth emphasized the mission’s dual goals: to defend the U.S. homeland and to eliminate narco-terrorists from the region. He stated, “This mission defends our Homeland, removes narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere, and secures our Homeland from the drugs that are killing our people.”
Operation Details and Recent Strikes
The operation is coordinated by Joint Task Force Southern Spear under the leadership of U.S. Southern Command. Just last week, U.S. forces executed their 20th strike against suspected drug-trafficking boats, resulting in the deaths of four alleged narco-terrorists. This aggressive campaign began on September 2, 2025, when 11 suspected members of the Tren de Aragua gang were killed in a strike. Since then, operations have continued with further targeted actions along established trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and Caribbean.
U.S. military efforts have led to the destruction of many vessels linked to notorious groups, including Colombia’s Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN) and Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang. The strikes have targeted various craft, from submersibles to fishing boats and high-speed vessels. Notably, one operation drew criticism from Colombia’s president due to the deaths of three men associated with an ELN-affiliated vessel.
The U.S. Navy spearheads Operation Southern Spear under the 4th Fleet and Southern Command, employing advanced technologies such as long-dwell robotic surface vessels and vertical takeoff and landing robotic air vessels. This strategic approach is designed to enhance surveillance and intervention capabilities in a vast operational area.
Broader Implications and Future Operations
The ongoing campaign reflects a concerted U.S. effort to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs into the country and to weaken the influence of narco-terrorist organizations in the region. As U.S. military operations continue to intensify, officials stress the importance of collaboration with regional partners to address the underlying issues of drug trafficking and organized crime.
In his recent announcement, Hegseth reiterated the commitment to securing the U.S. homeland, stating, “President Trump ordered action — and the Department of War is delivering.” As the situation evolves, further operations are anticipated, targeting additional vessels and networks involved in the narcotics trade.
This strategic initiative highlights the complexities of addressing narcotics trafficking and the associated threats posed by organized crime in the Americas. The U.S. continues to adapt its approach in response to the challenges posed by these criminal networks, aiming for a long-term impact on regional security and stability.
