A look at the Defence news 12 - 18 May
Dutch and Colombian marines trained together intensively for the first time. They practiced amphibious operations together, and riverine operations in the jungle. In the north of the South American country, the military personnel shared their knowledge and experience of these types of operations. Cooperation is necessary as both countries have interests in the Caribbean. The exercise lasted for 3 weeks.
Dutch and American helicopters over the northern Netherlands
Some 1,500 Dutch army and air force personnel have been conducting operations over the northern Netherlands since last week. They are using 20 transport and combat helicopters for these operations, which also involve an American helicopter unit. Leeuwarden Air Base is the nerve centre of this exercise, Falcon Spring.
Marines provide military assistance in Sint Maarten
Following a request by the Sint Maarten Police Force, the Sint Maarten marine detachment was deployed at the prison on the island. The request came after a fire had broken out in the prison.
Netherlands Prime Minister Schoof visits service members on Curaçao
Prime Minister Dick Schoof’s working trip to the Dutch Caribbean last week included a visit to Parera Naval Base on Curaçao.