Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron Has Blocked $3.3B in Narcotics Since October 2024

The US Coast Guard’s Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON) recently surpassed a major drug bust milestone, intercepting its 1,000th suspected narcotic vessel nearly 400 miles off the coast of Acapulco, Mexico. The missions have blocked nearly $3.3 billion of illicit narcotics from reaching US soil since October 1, 2024, tripling its long-term annual average.

“HITRON embodies the Coast Guard’s spirit of innovation and adaptability,” said Vice Adm. Nathan Moore, commander of the US Coast Guard Atlantic Area. “From its humble beginnings as a prototype program, it has evolved into a vital force in our counter-narcotics efforts. This milestone is a powerful reminder of the strategic value of this specialized unit in addressing the evolving complex maritime security challenges.”

During the 1000th operation, on August 25, a HITRON helicopter deployed from Coast Guard Cutter Midgett identified a suspected smuggling vessel 372 nautical miles offshore. When the crew ignored radio calls and warning shots, HITRON aircrew disabled the boat’s engines using precision rifle fire. A boarding team from Midgett later seized more than 3,600 pounds of cocaine, valued at an estimated $49 million, some of which had been jettisoned into the sea.

HITRON, based in Jacksonville, Florida, was created in 1999 as a classified test unit to determine if Coast Guard helicopters could effectively stop fast-moving drug vessels at sea. Its early success secured permanent funding, and since then, the squadron has grown to more than 200 members and intercepted over $33.2 billion in narcotics across the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. The group averages one successful interdiction every nine days.

The squadron’s achievement comes as the Coast Guard expands counter-drug operations under Operation Pacific Viper, which focuses on intercepting narcotics shipments transiting from South America. The Coast Guard, in partnership with international and interagency groups, has been deploying additional cutters, aircraft, and tactical teams to combat transnational criminal networks.

FMI: www.uscg.mil