US F-35Bs escort B-52 bombers on demonstration mission near Venezuela (X @AFSOUTH)
The United States Air Force released photos showing F-35B fighters from the Marine Corps escorting two B-52H Stratofortress bombers during a demonstration mission conducted on October 15, 2025, off the coast of Venezuela.
The exercise, conducted from Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana, aimed to reinforce the U.S. presence in the region and demonstrate the deterrence capability and readiness of forces under SOUTHCOM (United States Southern Command).
According to tracking data, three B-52 bombers operated for several hours in international airspace near Venezuela, escorted by F-35Bs armed with AIM-9X missiles and based in Puerto Rico. Observers reported that a Venezuelan F-16 fighter took off during the overflight, although no interception was recorded.
The American stealth aircraft drew attention by flying without the radar reflectors used in peacetime missions, suggesting training with more realistic combat features.
The operation took place amid an increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, which now includes about 10,000 personnel, along with AC-130J aircraft, MQ-9 drones, and warships, including the USS Iwo Jima amphibious group.
The action is interpreted as a clear demonstration of U.S. air power and strategic readiness in the region, reinforcing the country’s commitment to security and monitoring of illicit activities in the Western Hemisphere.
Source: The Aviationist | Photo: X @AFSOUTH | This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
USAF B-52Hs conducted a demonstration mission Oct. 15, 2025, in the USSOUTHCOM AOR demonstrating the U.S. commitment to proactively deter adversary threats, enhance crew training, and ensure the global force readiness necessary to respond to any contingency or challenge. pic.twitter.com/RjldPK9nhD
— Air Forces Southern (@AFSOUTH) October 17, 2025
