United States deploys Black Hawk helicopters to Ecuador

Two United States UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters have begun operations in Ecuadorian airspace as part of a bilateral security strategy to combat drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and illegal mining. The aircraft were observed in Guayaquil before moving to the Taura Air Base.

According to Ecuadorian Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo, the deployment is part of a robust assistance plan from the U.S. Southern Command. The helicopters are equipped with external fuel tanks to increase autonomy for long-range missions in critical sectors, including Manta, San Lorenzo, and the northern border. This aerial support is intended to complement naval operations involving U.S. warships and Ecuadorian vessels.

The cooperation includes significant financial backing from Washington, with approximately $45 million committed to fighting narcotics and an additional $10 million specifically targeted at eradicating illegal mining.