Southern Command AOR – U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft conducted aerial refueling with a U.S. Air Force HC-130J Combat King II from the 71st Expeditionary Rescue Squadron on January 30, 2026.

The operation took place in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility, demonstrating coordination between Marine Corps and Air Force units.

U.S. military forces are deployed in the Caribbean to support Southern Command missions, Department of War-directed operations, and presidential priorities aimed at disrupting illicit drug trafficking and protecting the homeland.

The aerial refueling highlights operational readiness and the ability to project power across the region while maintaining joint force integration.

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