Tobagonian authorities have publicly addressed the controversial installation of advanced US military radar technology at the ANR Robinson International Airport, asserting the system will serve exclusively for domestic security operations rather than offensive capabilities against neighboring nations.
During a comprehensive media briefing in Calder Hall on November 29, Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and Defense Minister Wayne Sturge provided unprecedented details about the strategic partnership with United States forces. The officials revealed the radar system—identified as the AN/TPS-80 ground/air task-oriented radar (G/ATOR) manufactured by Northrop Grumman—represents a critical component in combating sophisticated transnational crime networks.
Minister Sturge disclosed alarming intelligence regarding escalating aerial smuggling operations, noting a dramatic increase in unauthorized flights and drone activities transporting narcotics and firearms into Trinidad and Tobago. “The presence of US military assets in the southern Caribbean since late August has already produced measurable success in reducing maritime drug trafficking,” Sturge confirmed, indicating that criminal organizations have subsequently shifted to aerial smuggling routes.
The defense minister emphasized the system’s technical capabilities for 360-degree surveillance, describing its critical role in detecting illegal aircraft, coordinating air defense operations, and supporting counter-trafficking initiatives. Both officials explicitly denied any possibility of Trinidadian territory being utilized for offensive operations against Venezuela or other nations, noting the United States possesses sufficient naval assets—including the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier—to conduct independent military operations without requiring Tobagonian support.
Augustine acknowledged the complex geopolitical landscape, stating: “While Trinidad and Tobago cannot influence US presidential decisions, we maintain absolute sovereignty over how our territory is utilized. I will not endorse any installation designed for offensive operations against other nations.”
In a demonstration of Tobago’s diplomatic neutrality, Augustine announced the simultaneous invitation of both US Chargé d’Affaires Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz and Venezuelan Ambassador Álvaro Sánchez Cordero for upcoming Tobago Day celebrations. “This gesture underscores our commitment to peaceful coexistence with all nations,” Augustine affirmed. “We are not at war with anybody.”
The briefing addressed previous transparency concerns regarding US military presence, with officials clarifying that marines remained beyond their scheduled departure to complete civil engineering projects and technical installations, all conducted under existing Status of Forces agreements originally established under former Prime Minister Keith Rowley.