HNLMS Den Helder is returning to the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. The ship was previously there for warm-water trials. After interim visits to Norfolk and New York, this supply ship is now returning to the Caribbean region.
The ship will remain in the area in order to contribute to resupply if required. The Ministry of Defence periodically assesses whether this is appropriate as an additional precaution in light of current developments. Tensions in the region do not presently constitute a direct threat to the ABC Islands.
HNLMS Den Helder has been in the Caribbean since mid-October for warm-weather trials. The high humidity and high seawater temperatures provide ideal conditions for testing how the ship and its installations will respond.
The Royal Netherlands Navy officially commissioned HNLMS Den Helder on October 1, 2025.