WILLEMSTAD - Three warships and a maritime patrol aircraft from the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands participated in a joint maritime exercise in the Caribbean this week. The so-called Passing Exercise (PASSEX) aimed to enhance cooperation and operational readiness among the participating navies.
The exercise involved the U.S. guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG-60) and the destroyer USS Thomas Hudner (DDG-116), along with the British offshore patrol vessel HMS Medway (P223) and an NH90 Neptune helicopter from the Dutch patrol ship HNLMS Groningen (P843).
Strengthening Regional Security
According to Vice Admiral Carlos Sardiello, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command, a shared maritime presence is essential for strengthening regional security. “Through operations and exercises like this, in cooperation with committed allies, we enhance security in the region,” Sardiello stated.
The PASSEX exercise is part of a broader collaboration between the United States and its allies in the Western Hemisphere. Since 2023, the U.S., the UK, Canada, France, and the Netherlands have agreed to increase intelligence sharing and strengthen strategic cooperation in the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) area of operations. In addition to naval exercises, this collaboration includes port visits and joint security operations.