战略与国际研究中心-Don-t-Trade-Away-Progress-with-Mexico_1页_188kb

The Merida Initiative Aviation Program Summary

Core Content

The Merida Initiative Aviation Program is a U.S.-Mexico collaboration aimed at enhancing law enforcement and security capabilities through the delivery of advanced aviation assets. These aircraft are crucial for supporting counternarcotics operations, criminal justice enforcement, and the extension of the rule of law in difficult-to-reach areas of Mexico.

Main Objectives

• Counternarcotics Operations: Helicopters and surveillance aircraft are used to interdict drug trafficking and target illicit actors.
• Criminal Justice Enforcement: Provide air support for law enforcement investigations and operations.
• Rule of Law Extension: Enable government personnel to operate in remote or inaccessible regions, thereby reinforcing the rule of law.
• Citizen Safety and Security: Strengthen public safety and security through enhanced law enforcement capabilities.

Key Information

U.S. Aviation Support

The U.S. provides significant air support to Mexico as part of the Merida Initiative, which is a broader security partnership. This support includes:

• Helicopter Airlift: Essential for rapid deployment and secure transport of law enforcement personnel.
• Surveillance and Reconnaissance: Aircraft equipped with advanced ISR capabilities aid in monitoring and tracking illicit activities.

Mexico's Secretariat of Public Security (SSP)

• Black Hawk UH-60M Helicopters:
  • 3 helicopters have already been delivered.
  • 3 more are expected to be delivered by December 2011.
• ISR Dornier 328-JET Aircraft:
  • 1 contract is underway.
  • Expected to be delivered in 2011.

Mexico's Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA)

• Bell 412 Helicopters:
  • 7 helicopters have been delivered.
  • 1 additional Bell 412 is expected to be delivered by the end of 2010.

Mexico's Secretariat of the Navy (SEMAR)

• CASA 235 Maritime Surveillance Aircraft:
  • 4 aircraft are being procured for the Mexican Navy.
• Black Hawk UH-60M Helicopters:
  • 3 helicopters are expected to be delivered in 2011.

Summary of Deliveries

Conclusion

The Merida Initiative Aviation Program significantly enhances Mexico's law enforcement and security capabilities by providing a range of aerial assets. These deliveries support the Government of Mexico in its efforts to combat drug trafficking, improve public safety, and enforce the rule of law more effectively. The program underscores the U.S. commitment to strengthening security partnerships and achieving shared objectives in the region.