Rehearsing the Capture of Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro Last Summer...
In the summer of 2025, the U.S. military conducted a remarkable demonstration at the Fort Bragg (now Fort Liberty) base, personally overseen by then-President Donald Trump. This rehearsal was a simulation of a raid to capture the President of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro. In January 2026, the real 'Operation Absolute Resolve' successfully captured Maduro, reflecting the thorough preparation in the summer exercise.
Background of the Exercise
In the summer of 2025, American Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and Delta Force (CAG) troops trained at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. Fort Bragg is a primary center for the U.S. Army's Special Forces, where elite units like Delta Force conduct rigorous training.
Exercise Overview
President Trump watched as the exercise unfolded. The practice involved capturing a high-value target in enemy territory, mirroring the simulation of capturing Maduro in Venezuela. The Trump administration had been accusing Maduro of drug trafficking for some time, plotting his removal as a critical agenda.
The drill involved participation from elite U.S. military units...
Two MH-47G Chinook Helicopters:
These heavy-lift helicopters are designed for special operations, capable of swiftly deploying and extracting soldiers in hostile areas. Equipped with advanced radar, night vision, and extended range, the MH-47G can evade radars by flying at low altitudes.
AH-64 Apache Gunship Helicopter:
These attack helicopters provide cover fire, armed with Hellfire missiles, rockets, and a 30mm gun. During the exercise, they flew to protect the MH-47G.
Special Forces Rooftop Insertion:
Soldiers descended onto the roof of a defended building from the MH-47G, facing 'enemy' fire from Kalashnikov rifles.
Ground Support:
Ground Special Operations Forces (SOF) provided support using GMV vehicles. Ground Mobility Vehicles, derived from Humvee (HMMWV), are fast, lightweight, and equipped with machine guns and anti-tank weapons.
Source: aajtak
Why This Exercise?
The Trump administration labeled Maduro a 'narco-terrorist.' In 2020, charges for drug trafficking were placed against him. By 2025, the U.S. had expanded its military presence around Venezuela—ships, aircraft, and special forces were deployed. This exercise was part of the preparation. General Dan Cane (Chairman of the Joint Chiefs) mentioned that rehearsals had been ongoing for months, with a mockup of Maduro's compound.
Purpose of the Exercise
To train special forces under realistic conditions.
To check the coordination between helicopter insertion, rooftop assault, and ground support.
To showcase the military's capabilities to Trump to secure approval for the operation.
Connection to the Real Operation
In January 2026, 'Operation Absolute Resolve' used precisely these tactics. Delta Force conducted a raid on Maduro's compound in Caracas, under the cover of MH-47G and Apache helicopters. The power was cut, air defenses suppressed, and Maduro was captured. The training paved the way for success, with no casualties among American soldiers.
Source: aajtak
Details of Weapons and Vehicles Used
MH-47G Chinook: Part of the 160th SOAR (Night Stalkers), twin-engine, can carry 50+ soldiers, designed for special forces—capable of in-flight refueling, low-level flight.
AH-64 Apache: An attack helicopter with radar-guided missiles, capable of engaging distant targets.
GMV Vehicles: Humvee-based, tailored for special forces. Fast, heavily armored with machine guns, useful both off-road and in urban environments.
Global Reaction and Importance
This exercise displayed meticulous American planning. Trump declared it a 'display of American power.' However, many nations condemned the real raid as a breach of sovereignty, increasing tensions in Venezuela. Yet, Maduro's departure offers the hope of change.
This event highlights the capabilities of American special forces—units like Delta Force and the Night Stalkers are among the world's best.
Important Lessons for Countries like India:
The crucial nature of training in special operations. All in all, the 2025 exercise was a landmark event, which led to the success of a major operation in 2026.
