On 15 November 2025, the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conducted fast rope insertion drills from MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopters onto the flight deck of USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) while deployed in the Caribbean Sea. The exercise underscores the unit’s high-tempo readiness as regional tensions with Venezuela escalate.
Fast Rope Insertion and Rapid Response Capability
Marines rapidly descended from helicopters to practice ship-to-shore insertion, reinforcing their ability to respond quickly to coastal and maritime contingencies. These drills are critical for countering transnational threats, including organized criminal and paramilitary actors operating in the region.
Capabilities and Composition of 22nd MEU
The 22nd MEU comprises approximately 2,200 personnel and integrates a reinforced infantry battalion, MV-22B Ospreys, CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopters, AH-1Z Vipers, UH-1Y Venoms, and supporting logistics and command elements. The MEU can operate independently at sea for up to 30 days, providing a forward-deployed expeditionary strike option.
Southern Spear Operation
The training aligns with Operation Southern Spear, focused on maritime interdiction, counter-narcotics, and deterrence of transnational threats. The 22nd MEU’s amphibious capabilities enable rapid intervention across the southern maritime approaches, supporting U.S. strategic objectives in the Western Hemisphere.
Advanced Air and Ground Assets
With MV-22B tiltrotors, light armored vehicles, Javelin anti-tank teams, portable ISR drones, and expeditionary firepower, the MEU can seize high-value terrain, conduct urban operations, or pursue maritime targets beyond conventional naval reach.
Strategic Significance
The deployment of the 22nd MEU demonstrates U.S. commitment to regional stability. Southern Spear positions the unit as an active, mission-capable force, signaling Washington’s readiness to protect its southern maritime approaches and deter criminal or adversarial elements.
