WILLEMSTAD - The MQ-9 Reaper will remain deployable from Hato Airport until July 1, 2023. State Secretary of Defense Christophe van der Maat announced this during his visit to Curaçao.
The unmanned aircraft collects data and information from the air. Thanks to the control by satellite, the device can be operated worldwide. The Reaper is deployed in Curaçao to prepare air force personnel for major operations.
Three of the four aircraft have been on the island since the beginning of this year. At the time, a military unit started a test and evaluation phase that will end in December. After that, the staff continues to work on operational readiness.
The unmanned aircraft is stationed in Curaçao because of the favorable weather conditions and the availability of airspace. In addition, the unit is already collecting intelligence in support of military organizations in the Caribbean.
“I heard on the spot how important the device with its sensor capacity is here for, among other things, the fight against organized crime,” says Van der Maat. “Over the past period, Air Force colleagues have extensively tested the unmanned aircraft. It's good that they can continue training for the next six months."
In December, the fourth aircraft, together with two so-called Ground Control Stations, will arrive at Leeuwarden Air Base. The aircraft will remain in storage for the time being. Both cockpits are expected to become operational next year.