Battle of Paitilla Airport

The Battle of Paitilla Airport was an battle between members of the PDF and SEAL Team 4, on the 20th of December 1989. Launched in the starting hours of Operation Just Cause, this operation was handled by SEAL Team 4. The force consisted of forty-eight U.S. Navy SEALs (three SEAL Platoons; Golf, Echo, and Delta) under the command of Lt. Cmdr. Patrick Toohey. The team was tasked with destroying Noriega's private jet on the ground at the Punta Paitilla Airport, in Panama City.

Aftermath
Due to the high level of casualties sustained and several inconsistencies regarding planning and command and control during the battle, the Battle of Paitilla Airport is considered one of the most controversial operations within Operation Just Cause from the US military perspective.