A US military aircraft reportedly landed in Tobago on Tuesday to remove the controversial radar system that was installed at the ANR Robinson International Airport in October.
The Trinidad Express reported that the Hercules aircraft arrived from Roosevelt Roads Naval Station before returning to the Puerto Rico base.
Reacting to the news, the political leader of the Innovative Democratic Alliance (IDA) has welcomed the dismantling of the US military radar from the airport in Tobago.
Dr Denise Tsoiafatt-Angus said she was relieved that the radar has been removed.
“The Innovative Democratic Alliance welcomes the dismantling of the radar and the departure of the troops from Tobago,” she told Tobago Updates.
“From the beginning, we raised concerns about his installation, including the possible health impact on nearby communities and we are relieved that those risks have now been reduced.”
Former military commander Lt Norman Dindial reacting to the news said the radar system was never placed on the island to be used in the fight against drugs.
He said the $50 million piece of equipment was used to help with the incursion into Venezuela.
The AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR (Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar), which cost some US$50 million, was installed late in 2025 to assist with drug interdiction and maritime surveillance.
It’s installation at the A.N.R. Robinson International Airport came amid increased US military activity in the Caribbean.
