The deployment of the nuclear aircraft carrier USS Nimitz marks a new chapter in the United States’ strategy in Latin America. The vessel will participate in naval exercises with ten countries in the region, covering waters from the north, central, and south of the continent. According to U.S. Southern Command, these operations aim to enhance military cooperation and improve response capabilities to shared threats.
The maneuvers, dubbed Southern Seas 2026, include stops at key ports and exercises with navies from nations such as Mexico, Argentina, Chile, and Peru. This operation, which has been ongoing since 2007, aims to increase maritime interoperability in the hemisphere and will be conducted with a strike group that includes the destroyer USS Gridley and various combat aircraft.
In addition to the maneuvers, U.S. military authorities have emphasized that this deployment is also aimed at combating drug trafficking. Rear Admiral Carlos Sardiello highlighted the importance of improving coordination with allied forces, while Quito and Washington carry out joint actions against criminal organizations in the region as part of Operation Lanza Sur.
