Fresh Sentinel-2 satellite imagery has revealed the USS Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked, conducting movements southeast in the Caribbean, roughly 550 kilometers north of Caracas, Venezuela.
The deployment, confirmed by imagery in recent days, shows the presence of:
• USS Iwo Jima (Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, LHD)
• Two San Antonio-class landing platform docks (LPDs)
• An Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer
The southward transit has drawn attention given the rising political and security tensions in the region. While U.S. military officials have not publicly commented on the group’s mission profile, analysts suggest the movement could be linked to enhanced counter-narcotics operations, maritime security patrols, or positioning for potential regional contingencies.
Washington has maintained increased vigilance in the Caribbean in recent years, citing narcotics trafficking networks as well as heightened instability in Venezuela.
The presence of a fully capable ARG–MEU combination reflects a significant show of force and flexibility, offering both deterrent value and expeditionary capabilities in the region.
Observers note that the trajectory of the Iwo Jima ARG will be closely watched in the coming days as it may indicate either a ramp-up in maritime security operations or broader geopolitical signaling toward Caracas and its allies.
