The Netherlands is closely involved in military planning for a possible mission in the Strait of Hormuz. The planning is taking place through an international coalition of dozens of countries.
The coalition has assessed that an air defence and command frigate could provide significant added value if the mission begins. To allow a timely deployment, the Ministry of Defence decided to change the course of HNLMS De Ruyter towards the Strait of Hormuz.
The frigate is expected to arrive in the region within several weeks. HNLMS De Ruyter left Den Helder in mid-April and has spent recent weeks in the Indo-Pacific.
The ship’s Indo-Pacific deployment was linked to efforts to promote the international legal order. These included support for freedom of passage and navigation.
The minehunter HNLMS Willemstad joined Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 2 earlier this month. That naval group focuses on mine countermeasures in the Mediterranean Sea.
Several minehunters from coalition partners are already present near the Strait of Hormuz. HNLMS Willemstad will remain available for possible deployment to the strait if such a decision is taken.
The Netherlands also retains the option of rapidly deploying a combined search, diving and explosive ordnance disposal team. A contribution of staff capacity also remains possible.
The possible Dutch contribution reflects ongoing military planning around maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. The final decision on any deployment from the Netherlands has not yet been made.
