According to information shared on its social media, K-8 attack aircraft and F-16 fighters from the Bolivarian Military Aviation (AMB) of Venezuela carried out an interception and neutralization operation of a suspicious aircraft linked to drug smuggling during a border reconnaissance mission.
According to GJ Domingo Hernandez Larez, Operational Strategic Commander of the FANB, the operation involved the identification of a twin-engine aircraft with no visible registration, hidden under a mesh in a gallery forest at coordinates 06°14’36.40″N / 068°51’30.30″W, near an unauthorized dirt airstrip. As the aircraft entered Venezuelan territory without a flight plan or authorization, it was declared hostile for violating the public restriction zone by the INC.
Based on the images shared, F-16 A/B aircraft provided air cover, while AMB’s K-8W Karakorum conducted a ground attack, targeting the aircraft. Official reports indicate that this was the 14th aircraft disabled this year and the 388th since 2010.
In light of the reported activities, the force keeps its F-16s operational despite existing embargoes, carrying out the interception and downing of aircraft. After four decades of service, the F-16A/B Fighting Falcon of the Bolivarian Military Aviation remains one of the main combat assets of the force.
Cover image for illustrative purposes.
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