Caribbean Sea – In a coordinated pre-dawn operation on January 9, 2026, Marines and Sailors from Joint Task Force Southern Spear, supporting the Department of Homeland Security, successfully intercepted the motor/tanker Olina without incident.

The operation launched from the USS Gerald R. Ford and involved the full capabilities of the U.S. Navy’s Amphibious Ready Group, including the USS Iwo Jima, USS San Antonio, and USS Fort Lauderdale.

This action is part of the Department of War’s Operation Southern Spear, which seeks to defend the homeland by eliminating illicit activity and restoring security throughout the Western Hemisphere.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download