WILLEMSTAD – The Royal Netherlands Navy vessel HNLMS Groningen (Zr. Ms. Groningen) departed Curaçao on Sunday on a humanitarian mission to deliver emergency assistance to Venezuela following the devastating earthquakes that recently struck the South American country.
The naval vessel was loaded in Curaçao with emergency relief supplies, including drinking water and other humanitarian aid. It is also carrying an NH90 helicopter and two Fast Raiding, Interception and Special Forces Craft (FRISC), which can be deployed to support relief operations if needed.
According to the Caribbean Defence organization, HNLMS Groningen has been deployed to provide emergency assistance in the aftermath of the disaster. In addition to transporting fresh water, the ship is equipped with onboard water purification systems capable of producing additional potable water for affected communities.
The crew of HNLMS Groningen is prepared to provide humanitarian assistance on the ground while working closely with national and international partners involved in the relief effort. Through the deployment, the Netherlands is contributing to the broader international humanitarian response.
In addition to the naval mission, the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard is using its Dash-8 surveillance aircraft to transport relief supplies and personnel from the Caribbean islands to Venezuela. Caribbean Defence is also supporting the United States' emergency relief operations, which are being coordinated from Curaçao International Airport (Hato).
The deployment is part of the Caribbean Defence's broader responsibility to assist local authorities in Curaçao, Aruba and Bonaire during disasters and emergencies throughout the year. Such operations become particularly important during the Atlantic hurricane season, when military assets are frequently called upon to support humanitarian missions.
HNLMS Groningen has been stationed in the Caribbean since the beginning of June. Besides humanitarian assistance, the vessel is routinely tasked with maritime security operations, including surveillance, law enforcement and combating illegal activities such as drug trafficking.
