WILLEMSTAD – The Dutch Army has officially deployed a new military unit to the Caribbean region. During a formal ceremony, Major Marco Kamphorst from Havelte assumed command from Lieutenant Colonel Kjell Koster, whose unit has been active in the region for the past four months. 

The outgoing unit, the 11th Engineer Company, reflected on a demanding yet impactful mission. Their efforts included close collaboration with local partners and the Royal Netherlands Navy's Caribbean Command (CZMCARIB). One of the highlights of their deployment was their support during the prison fire on Sint Maarten, where Dutch troops worked alongside local authorities and the Marine Detachment to provide emergency assistance. 

“We’ve learned a great deal about operating in the challenging conditions of the Caribbean,” said Lieutenant Colonel Koster. During their deployment, the unit trained in specialized skills such as airfield repair and handling explosives, while also strengthening ties with Curaçaoan military counterparts. 

The newly deployed unit, the 43rd Brigade Reconnaissance Squadron, brings advanced capabilities in surveillance and reconnaissance operations. Major Kamphorst described the upcoming mission as "a particularly interesting period" that will allow his team to take full advantage of the tropical environment for training and innovation. 

The Dutch Army maintains a continuous military presence in the Caribbean under the command of CZMCARIB. Over the next four months, the 43rd Brigade will conduct exercises and joint operations on Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao.