The Royal Netherlands Navy and the Royal Navy have spent the past weeks training off the coasts of Britain and France to prepare for the protection of NATO treaty areas. The aim was for various units to operate in an integrated, well-coordinated manner — like a finely tuned machine.
The training took place with the support of HNLMS Johan de Witt. British marines made good use of the amphibious transport ship, deploying in small boats to approach and board a simulated enemy vessel before safely returning to the ship’s dock.
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Amphibious operations and helicopter landings
Several landing craft were also used to carry out amphibious operations, allowing the marines to move quietly and discreetly ashore in a simulated hostile area. Once landed, they secured the surroundings before advancing further inland.
The helicopter deck aboard Johan de Witt was equally busy, as British pilots practised precision landings and take-offs with two Merlin MK4 helicopters — both by day and night, sometimes carrying cargo slung beneath the aircraft.
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Merlin Trident 2025
The exercise, dubbed Merlin Trident 2025, was also a baptism of fire for many newly deployed British and Dutch personnel. Real operational readiness comes through experience — learning by doing, frequently and intensively.
The cooperation between the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Royal Navy has existed for over fifty years and was celebrated extensively in 2023. This most recent exercise once again demonstrated how effectively the two nations work together — even with many new recruits on board.
Picture (top): HNLMS Johan De Witt took part in Merlin Trident 2025 (photo by Dutch Ministry of Defence).
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