WILLEMSTAD – Military personnel from Curaçao and Aruba are set to be further developed into a deployable infantry unit, as part of a broader shift within the Kingdom’s defense strategy in response to changing geopolitical conditions.
Currently, Caribbean military personnel—organized under CARMIL—are primarily tasked with guarding military installations and supporting civil authorities. Under the new plans, their role will be expanded to include a wider range of military operations.
According to the Ministry of Defense, the move reflects a growing emphasis on territorial defense, as global tensions prompt countries to strengthen their ability to protect their own regions. In this context, units based in Curaçao and Aruba are expected to play a more prominent role within the Kingdom’s defense structure in the Caribbean.
The goal is to transform the existing force into a tactical infantry unit of approximately 100 to 150 soldiers. This would allow for more effective cooperation with Dutch military units and enable participation in a broader spectrum of operations.
While the plans have been under consideration for some time, recent international developments have added urgency to their implementation. Earlier efforts have already focused on professionalizing the force, with the aim of evolving into a light infantry unit equipped with modern capabilities and increased operational strength.
Despite the expanded military role, the units will continue to support civil authorities, including providing assistance during emergencies and disaster response situations.
The evolving strategy is also part of wider discussions within the Kingdom about the security implications of global geopolitical shifts, which have been addressed in interparliamentary consultations.
The planned transformation marks a significant step in strengthening defense capacity in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom, while maintaining a dual role in both military and civil support operations.