Puerto Rico's Forgotten Bases Become Crucial Again

Military facilities on the island are being revived as military operations continue in the Caribbean

A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Super Hercules assigned to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 252, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, is parked on the flightline while a U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South, takes off at Jose Aponte de la Torre Airport in Ceiba, Puerto Rico, Nov. 20, 2025. U.S. military forces are deployed to the Caribbean in support of the U.S. Southern Command mission, Department of War-directed operations, and the president’s priorities to disrupt illicit drug trafficking and protect the homeland. (U.S. Marine Corps photo) The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoW) visual information does not imply or constitute DoW endorsement.

NBC News reports on the recent revival of military activity at the Jose Aponte de la Torre Airport, part of the former Roosevelt Roads Naval Station.

From the article:

AGUADILLA, Puerto Rico — One day after the United States attacked Venezuela and captured its ruler, Nicolás Maduro, beachgoers on the northwestern coast of Puerto Rico heard the rumbling noises of flying military aircraft overtake the peaceful sounds of waves lapping onto the shore.

For those in this city known for its surfing and beach life, the sights and roars of fighter jets and Reaper drones were a reminder that, just a few miles away, the air facilities of a once-shuttered U.S. military base have gained renewed importance in President Donald Trump’s plan to assert “American dominance in the Western Hemisphere.”

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