WILLEMSTAD - The Dutch naval vessel Zr.Ms. Groningen, which patrols the Caribbean, must return to the Netherlands for repairs. Defense reported this at the beginning of the week. The ship must return to Dutch waters on January 16.

It is a defect in the ship's propulsion system. The repair of this is so complicated that, according to Defense, it can better be carried out in the Netherlands. There is a maritime combat helicopter on board the ship, which will return to the port in Den Helder.

HNLMS Groningen will not be replaced by another ship, because the Dutch navy currently has no available vessels for it.

The tasks of the Groningen will be taken over by the Caribbean Coast Guard. This is the Caribbean Netherlands' own coast guard. The ship is used for operations against terrorism, piracy, and drug trafficking.

If in the absence of the HNLMS Groningen emergencies arise, then the navy can still decide to send a ship. There is also a support ship in the Caribbean, the HNLMS Pelican. However, according to Defense, that ship is not suitable for patrolling.