The Venezuelan Ministry of the Popular Participation for the Defense is the federal-level organ responsible for maintaining the Venezuelan armed forces. As of July 2013, this ministry is headed by Carmen Melendez, after her promotion to rank admiral-in-chief. She became first woman in this rank and position in Venezuelan history. The ministry coordinates numerous counter-narcotics operations (e.g., Operation Sierra through the CUFAN organ), helps ready numerous civil guard initiatives, and general oversees the conventional military capabilities of Venezuela.