As reported by the Miami Herald on August 29, 2025, Venezuela has emerged as the first country in Latin America to introduce armed drones into its arsenal, a capability developed over nearly two decades of military cooperation with Iran. The origins of this program date back to agreements signed during the government of Hugo Chávez, when Caracas sought unmanned aerial vehicles for reconnaissance but gradually moved toward strike capabilities. These developments were made public during military parades and television broadcasts, and although the government initially avoided acknowledging the use of armed drones, evidence and later demonstrations confirmed their existence. Analysts have highlighted that this shift has implications not only for Venezuela’s domestic defense strategy but also for the broader regional balance of power. Read full defense news at this link...
 |
| U.S. and Israeli officials have repeatedly warned that Venezuela could become a hub for Iranian drone production, including kamikaze systems, with potential risks of proliferation to criminal groups or non-state actors in Latin America. (Picture source: CAVIM) |