Full Breakdown
USS San Antonio Takes Lead in U.S. Disaster-Relief Mission to Venezuela
7/16/2026, 10:06:52 PM
Humanitarian Relief Operation Shifts to USS San Antonio
On July 9, 2026 the amphibious transport dock USS San Antonio arrived in La Guaira, Venezuela, assuming the primary maritime role in the State Department-led response to the June 24 earthquakes. The ship replaces USS Fort Lauderdale, which had made the first U.S. Navy port call to Venezuela in decades on June 28. USS San Antonio now serves as the afloat coordination hub for U.S. Southern Command, the State Department, and Venezuelan authorities, directing the distribution of supplies and supporting rapid-response activities across the affected regions.
Background: June 24, 2026 Earthquakes
A series of powerful tremors struck Venezuela on June 24, causing extensive damage to coastal infrastructure and displacing thousands of residents. International aid agencies and nongovernmental organizations mobilized, and the U.S. government launched a disaster-assistance effort under State Department oversight.
Official Statements & Responses
Navy Capt. Jiwan Mack, commanding officer of USS Fort Lauderdale, praised the joint effort: “The sailors and Marines of the USS Fort Lauderdale and Littoral Combat Force 24 have worked tirelessly to deliver humanitarian assistance to the people of Venezuela. Our Navy-Marine Corps team remains ready to respond rapidly to emerging crisis.”
Navy Capt. Tom Uhl, commanding officer of USS San Antonio, emphasized continuity: “We are prepared to continue the vital mission that the USS Fort Lauderdale began. The presence of the USS San Antonio and Littoral Combat Force 24 in La Guaira represents more than just a transition of ships; it demonstrates the resolve and inherent capabilities of the Navy-Marine Corps team in supporting Department of State-led disaster response efforts to bring relief to the Venezuelan people.”
Operational Capabilities Supporting Relief
USS San Antonio’s design enables extended, self-sustaining operations with minimal local support. The vessel provides advanced medical facilities, a large flight deck for rotary-wing search-and-rescue missions, and a well deck capable of launching landing craft to move heavy cargo directly to damaged coastal sites. Integrated aviation assets—including Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 48 and Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365—have already begun supporting the effort.
Ongoing Coordination and Duration
U.S. Southern Command indicated that the military presence is temporary, intended to stabilize the crisis, minimize suffering, and transition responsibilities to NGOs, international aid groups, and Venezuelan authorities once immediate needs are met. Planning for continued support proceeds in close coordination with the State Department, the Venezuelan government, and international partners.
