Eastern Pacific Ocean – The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Forward intercepted a suspected drug-smuggling semi-submersible in the Eastern Pacific Ocean on February 24, 2026.

During the operation, Forward’s Over-the-Horizon cutter boat approached the low-profile vessel, which is designed to carry narcotics while remaining difficult to detect.

The interception occurred far offshore as part of ongoing Coast Guard counter-narcotics missions in the Eastern Pacific, a key route used by criminal organizations to transport illegal drugs toward the United States.

Semi-submersible vessels ride low in the water, making them challenging to detect until crews are close. The successful approach by Forward’s crew prevented potential drug shipments from reaching their intended destination.

The operation demonstrates the Coast Guard’s continuing efforts to disrupt transnational drug trafficking and secure international waters.

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