According to the Dutch Ministry of Defence, the frigate will contribute to the protection of a Carrier Strike Group as well as the defence of Cyprus and allied territory. The deployment was announced to both chambers of the Dutch parliament by Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen and Defence Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius.
Officials said the mission responds to recent developments in the Middle East and attacks carried out by Iran against neighbouring countries, including several Dutch partners. The deployment is described as a defensive measure intended to reinforce allied security.
Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen emphasised the political significance of the operation. “With this deployment, the Netherlands shows allied solidarity and contributes to European cooperation in the protection of the international legal order.”
Defence Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius highlighted the frigate’s operational capabilities. “HNLMS Evertsen has unique capabilities to detect threats from the air from great distances.”
She said these capabilities allow the ship’s crew to protect both the vessel and allied forces operating nearby. “This allows the crew to protect themselves and their allies.”
Yeşilgöz-Zegerius also noted that the mission strengthens cooperation with European partners. “By operating together with the French, we also strengthen operations in a European context.”
HNLMS Evertsen has been part of a naval task group centred on the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle since 4 February. France requested continued Dutch support for the formation last week.
The ship’s sensors and weapons systems are designed to defend naval formations against aerial threats. These capabilities include the detection and interception of drones and missiles targeting allied forces.
