HNLMS De Ruyter departed on Sunday with a crew of around 200 for the Indo-Pacific. The air defence and command frigate is equipped with an NH90 maritime helicopter. During the voyage, the ship will also contribute to EUNAVFOR operations in the Red Sea.
To promote freedom of navigation and keep strategic shipping routes secure, the Netherlands aims to strengthen diplomatic, security and economic ties with countries in the Indo-Pacific. The naval vessel plays an important role in this effort.
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Recurring maritime presence in the Indo-Pacific
The main global maritime trade routes pass through this region, which the Dutch government therefore considers of great importance to the country’s security and economy. The Ministry of Defence is focusing on a recurring maritime presence in the Indo-Pacific. Two years ago, HNLMS Tromp operated in the region.
The frigate will take part in international operations and exercises with allies and partners for five months, strengthening naval cooperation. Port visits to countries in the region will underline the Netherlands’ diplomatic interests. The deployment also enhances the readiness and global deployability of the Royal Netherlands Navy.
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Red Sea deployment
On its way to the Indo-Pacific, HNLMS De Ruyter will transit the Red Sea, where it will contribute to the EU operation European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Aspides, aimed at protecting international shipping. The security situation in the Middle East will be closely monitored during the voyage, and the Netherlands may respond to developments if necessary.
From the Red Sea, the frigate will sail via the Indian Ocean to Southeast Asia. In addition to exercises and port visits, the ship will contribute to enforcing UN Security Council maritime sanctions against North Korea. After participating in the large-scale naval exercises Rim of the Pacific and Pacific Dragon around Hawaii, the vessel will return to the Netherlands via the Caribbean.
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Gun replacement
HNLMS De Ruyter is fully equipped and trained for deployment as a frigate, specialising in air defence operations. The ship is currently fitted with the Oto Breda 127 mm naval gun, which is scheduled to be replaced in the future, as previously announced.
At present, the gun on board HNLMS De Ruyter is not operational pending this upgrade. However, the vessel has sufficient alternative means for self-defence, and the gun is not required for the Indo-Pacific deployment.
Picture: HNLMS De Ruyter (photo by the Dutch Ministry of Defence).
