WILLEMSTAD - After nearly two years of active service from Curaçao, the unmanned aircraft MQ-9 is departing for Romania this month to defend the NATO Eastern flank. The MQ-9, an advanced intelligence-gathering aircraft, completed its last mission for Defense in the Caribbean on Friday, January 12. 

Curaçao served as a base for these aircraft, thanks in part to favorable weather conditions and ample airspace availability. Of the four aircraft, three were stationed on the island. 

The primary function was to train air force personnel and maintain crew readiness. Over time, the MQ-9 also played a role in local assistance and operations aimed at combating drug trafficking. In total, the aircraft logged over 2,800 flight hours. 

The MQ-9 will be deployed for intelligence gathering along the eastern border of the NATO treaty area. NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, is a military alliance between various countries for mutual defense. The NATO Eastern flank borders countries that are not members of the alliance, necessitating strategic monitoring. 

Despite the departure of the MQ-9, Defense will remain active in the Caribbean with the deployment of the maritime patrol aircraft DASH-8, managed by the Caribbean Coast Guard. This aircraft will take over the tasks previously performed by the MQ-9, including surveillance and monitoring of airspace. This ensures the region continues to receive ongoing support and security from the air.