WILLEMSTAD – The 47th rotation of the Dutch Army company stationed in the Caribbean has officially handed over its duties to the next unit. During a ceremony on Friday morning, Lieutenant Colonel Kjell Koster took command from Major Jan Bethlehem. Over the next four months, the 11th Engineer Company will operate and train in Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire, according to the Ministry of Defense.
Major Bethlehem reflected with pride on the cooperation and training efforts of the Delta ‘DJOKJA’ company. “The unit trained under challenging conditions and worked closely with CZMCARIB and local security partners. One of the highlights was the Caribbean DJOKJA military exercise, where tactical maneuvers and technical innovations were tested in the region,” the ministry stated.
The new commander, Lieutenant Colonel Koster, emphasized that the engineer company brings unique capabilities, including explosive ordnance disposal and terrain conditioning. In addition to providing military support to the Airborne Brigade, the unit is also prepared to assist in other capacities when needed, the ministry confirmed.
The Royal Netherlands Army maintains a permanent military presence in the Caribbean, ready to respond to various missions. In the coming months, the new rotation will focus on cooperation with local partners and training in tropical conditions.