Operation Southern Spear: A Response to Drug Cartels

The U.S. is facing threats from drug cartels, leading to military action through Operation Southern Spear, as stated by the Secretary of the Navy, John Phelan.

Phelan emphasized the severity of the drug crisis, stating, “More Americans die from drugs than we’ve ever lost in war. The president correctly views this as an attack on our country.” He shared these thoughts during an appearance on “My View with Lara Trump” Saturday night.

In discussing Operation Southern Spear, Phelan mentioned the significant military resources involved, including the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group. He noted, “There are nine carrier air wings, over 70 aircraft… and 11 ships, plus the Marines.”

This initiative also involves support from the Coast Guard and Homeland Security, and is part of a broader military modernization effort that includes new technologies like artificial intelligence, hypersonics, and unmanned systems, along with a shipbuilding initiative led by President Trump.

Phelan remarked on the president’s dedication to shipbuilding, saying, “He’s been really engaged in this for a while, which is great. His passion is vital.” He pointed out the importance of reviving the manufacturing sector, noting, “We need to teach people practical skills again, not just coding.”

He mentioned plans to not only expand current shipyards but also open new ones, indicating that over 50,000 additional workers will likely be necessary in the shipbuilding sector.

Addressing criticisms that the deployment might be overreaching or misallocating naval resources, Phelan defended the operation’s cooperative nature and its alignment with military objectives. “Our military’s role is to protect the homeland, and we’re deploying our best resources for that purpose,” he stated.

Phelan acknowledged concerns over China’s growing presence in the region, highlighting their significant naval investments. “They have more ships than the U.S. Navy. I think it’s crucial to consider how we project our power, especially with the capabilities we have.” He added that, while numbers matter, U.S. focus on capacity is key.

Reflecting on the future, Phelan shared his vision for the Navy: to aim for “zero coffins with the Stars and Stripes,” focusing on deterrence to avoid combat situations. “The American public should know that our Navy and Marine Corps are prepared. They represent the best force worldwide, and maintaining that strength is essential,” he concluded.