The “Tridents” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 26 recently deployed in support of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and Joint Interagency Task Force South to relieve the VP-47 “Golden Swordsmen” in the 4th Fleet area of responsibility. 

As operational lead to Commander Task Force 47, the Tridents assumed duties from the Swordsmen as Commander Task Group 47.1.

As part of the continued enhanced counter-narcotics mission in the East Pacific and Caribbean, the VP-26 “Tridents”, joined by the VP-47 “Golden Swordsmen”, bring a fleet of P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol aircraft providing a significant increase in maritime surveillance, seizures of drug shipments, and provide additional support for vessels in the area.

"Building on the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force community’s presence in the SOUTHCOM area of responsibility has only been possible by the aircrew and support personnel of VP-26 and VP-47," said VP-26 Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Eric Andrews.  "Their flexibility and diligent efforts, all while maintaining health of the force and our families in these unprecedented times, has allowed our team to sustain mission assurance."

Uniquely suited, the P-8A aircraft and aircrews effectively perform long-range sea surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue.  The Tridents and Golden Swordsmen provide critical information to fleet commanders while strengthening our existing relationships with our regional partner nations. 

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