WILLEMSTAD - A reconnaissance unit from the Royal Netherlands Army trained with special drones in Curaçao over the past two weeks. 

The 4th platoon of the 42nd Brigade Reconnaissance Squadron started its exercise 'Caribbean Raven' in Curaçao on October 30. This platoon consists of approximately 16 soldiers stationed in Oirschot, Netherlands. 

Over the past two weeks, the soldiers conducted various training sessions with different special military drones. Training sessions were also held, and the platoon extensively focused on its readiness for (inter)national operations. 

Equipped with various drones, the 42nd is considered the eyes of the Brigade commander, collecting crucial information on missions. Using drones, the soldiers can map areas, take photos of roads, and track suspicious individuals or vehicles from a distance. The platoon is also deployed in locating and finding missing persons during search operations and detecting fire outbreaks during wildfires. 

For the unit from the Netherlands, training in Curaçao has significant added value. The climatic conditions in the Caribbean region are similar to those in many mission areas. Additionally, Curaçao's extensive airspace provides the soldiers with the opportunity to train in similar conditions.