DZWatch Exclusive: Satellite imagery analysis reveals a significant increase in US military activity across five strategic bases and airports in the Caribbean region. This development comes amid escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela.
The analysis, conducted by DZWatch’s investigative unit, utilized satellite imagery, open-source intelligence from social media, and official data to map the extent of the US military build-up. These bases appear to be crucial to ongoing operations.
MacDill Air Force Base: Command Center Activity
Satellite images of MacDill Air Force Base, the headquarters of US Central Command, show a surge in aircraft presence. A comparison of images taken on August 16th and December 20th reveals a total of 32 aircraft present on the latter date.
The imagery further indicates a concentration of KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft and two E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) planes at the base. DZWatch’s investigative team corroborated the satellite data with publicly available information on US military aircraft deployments.
Furthermore, aerial photographs posted online by observers appear to confirm the concentration of aircraft, aligning with the satellite imagery.
MacDill Air Force Base reportedly serves as a domestic support hub for ‘Southern Spear,’ an operation linked to activities concerning Venezuela, according to US military statements.
Washington initiated ‘Southern Spear’ in November 2025, led by Joint Task Force and Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), with the stated goal of combating ‘narco-terrorists’ and securing the Western Hemisphere.
Henry E. Rohlsen Airport: Presence in Isolated Islands
Further analysis is underway regarding activity at Henry E. Rohlsen Airport in the US Virgin Islands. DZWatch continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available.
