The Trump administration has quietly deployed three U.S. military aircraft to El Salvador, marking a new phase in America’s counter-drug operations across Latin America.
U.S. Aircraft Deployed Without Congress Approval
What makes this deployment controversial is that it reportedly bypassed congressional approval, sparking debate about the extent of presidential military powers.
Satellite images obtained by journalists show three high-powered aircraft stationed at Cooperative Security Location Comalapa, which sits inside El Salvador International Airport. The planes include:
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A P-8A Poseidon, a maritime patrol aircraft capable of detecting submarines and surface ships.
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A C-40 Clipper, a transport plane used to move personnel and cargo.
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An AC-130J Ghostrider, a powerful ground-attack gunship designed for precision missions.
These aircraft were positioned in the region as part of the U.S. administration’s broader plan to disrupt drug-trafficking routes operating between Venezuela, Central America, and the Caribbean. Reports indicate that nearly 10,000 U.S. troops and a dozen warships are now active in nearby waters.
Expanding Military Footprint in Latin America
The El Salvador base, originally built in 2000, was first used for counter-narcotics surveillance missions. Until 2022, it regularly hosted U.S. Navy aircraft used for intelligence gathering and maritime monitoring. But after years of limited use, satellite images show that the base is now buzzing again — with large aircraft, fuel trucks, and crew support vehicles visible on site.
The AC-130J Ghostrider’s presence signals a significant escalation. This aircraft is known for its powerful side-firing cannons and advanced sensor systems. It is primarily used by U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM), which means elite special forces are likely involved in these operations.
A P-8A Poseidon has also been spotted at the base. This aircraft, normally used by the U.S. Navy, is equipped with radar and cameras that can track ships, submarines, and even smaller surface targets from miles away. It can also carry torpedoes and anti-ship missiles — showing the dual purpose of intelligence gathering and potential combat readiness.
The C-40 Clipper is typically used for personnel movement and logistical support, suggesting a longer-term American presence in the country.
According to regional defense observers, these deployments are part of a wider U.S. military buildup across the Caribbean and Central America. The missions focus on intercepting vessels allegedly linked to drug cartels and trafficking networks connected to Venezuela. In recent months, U.S. forces have claimed to destroy several boats carrying narcotics, leading to multiple casualties.
While Washington describes the missions as efforts to “protect the homeland,” lawmakers have raised concerns about the lack of transparency. The White House has not shared specific legal justifications for these strikes, nor clarified whether Congress was informed before deployment.
Political and Regional Implications
A bipartisan group of senators had earlier attempted to restrict the president’s ability to order such operations targeting Venezuela without legislative oversight. However, their proposal was voted down, clearing the way for expanded missions in Latin America.
The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), which oversees operations in the region, released a statement saying that the aircraft deployments “advance the president’s priorities to disrupt drug trafficking and protect the homeland.”
The Salvadoran government has allowed U.S. military access to its territory since the early 2000s. Officials there say the partnership helps in regional security efforts, but critics fear the base could draw El Salvador deeper into international conflicts.
The presence of high-tech surveillance planes and combat aircraft at the Comalapa Air Base suggests the U.S. is increasing its reliance on smaller, strategic outposts instead of large overseas bases.
The timing of the deployment also coincides with reports of increased U.S. strikes on maritime targets in the eastern Pacific, not far from El Salvador’s coastline. While it is not confirmed that these aircraft are directly involved in those missions, their appearance at the base aligns with this recent surge in activity.
Defense experts note that the Cooperative Security Location was originally designed for humanitarian aid and disaster response missions. Today, however, its renewed activity signals a shift from “soft power” operations like relief aid to “hard power” missions that involve armed patrols, surveillance, and potentially offensive actions.
Human Bargains: 252 Migrants at Center of Venezuela–El Salvador Diplomatic Showdown
For now, officials continue to describe these deployments as part of long-standing defense cooperation and counter-drug efforts. But with increased U.S. military assets stationed in El Salvador — and with little congressional oversight — the expansion marks a clear escalation in America’s operations across Latin America.