The Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) intercepted and neutralized the 28th hostile aircraft so far in 2025. The operation was carried out in Apure state as part of the deployment of Operation Bolivarian Shield 2025, according to information from the Strategic Operational Commander, General Domingo Hernández Lárez.
The Commander explained that the Aerospace Command’s early warning radar systems detected an aircraft entering Venezuelan airspace from the east of Bolívar state. The aircraft was flying without an identification code, with its transponder turned off, and without a valid flight plan. After legal verification with the Maiquetía Flight Information Region (FIR) and confirmation of the absence of a flight plan, the aircraft was declared as hostile.
It is a white twin-engine Cessna 310 with a green stripe and no visible registration number, which was intercepted by three F-16 fighter jets. The aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in the Pedro Camejo municipality of Apure state, where it was immobilized. This procedure is part of the established protocols for dealing with illicit flights that violate national sovereignty.
Hernández Lárez noted that, since the enactment of the relevant law in 2013, a total of 419 aircraft have been rendered inoperable in Venezuelan territory. This figure reflects the comprehensive airspace control policy to combat illicit activities.
The high-ranking officer emphasized that «Venezuela is a land of peace» and reiterated the FANB’s commitment to the fight against drug trafficking. He stressed that the country will not be a platform for transnational narcoterrorism, thus defending national sovereignty and security.