SOUTHCOM provides update on support for Venezuela earthquake relief, July 3

U.S. military support to the State Department-led earthquake relief effort in Venezuela is continuing, with a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster cargo aircraft scheduled today to transport the last of 10 U.S. Marine Corps Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacements to bolster distribution operations for disaster victims and relief personnel. During disaster response, MTVR crews and fleets shift from their conventional roles to serve as primary logistical lifelines delivering urgently needed assistance to devastated communities.

U.S. Air Force C-17 and C-130 cargo aircraft are continuing to move personnel, supplies, and equipment needed for ongoing assistance.

At Simón Bolívar International Airport, the U.S. military’s Humanitarian Assistance Coordination Center is working with local authorities, the State Department, allies, partners, and other agencies on the ground to speed aid to those affected. A Contingency Response Element at the airport is supporting the safe and gradual resumption of air traffic and airfield operations.

Vertical-lift and rotary-wing aircraft from the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Army are conducting airlift and transport flights, including deliveries of pre-packaged, self-contained meals for earthquake survivors and displaced citizens.

USS Fort Lauderdale remains at the Port of La Guaira, supporting critical communications and serving as a distribution node.

The U.S. military is closely coordinating with the State Department, Venezuelan disaster response personnel, and international partners contributing to the relief effort. U.S. Southern Command will continue posting updates on its official channels, and additional information about the Marine Corps’ Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement fleet—as well as related photos and videos—is available online.