US military aircraft operating in the airspace of Aruba and Curaçao will now switch on their transponders, following agreements reached between the United States and authorities in both islands.
Aruba’s Prime Minister, Mike Eman, announced at a press conference on Wednesday that military exercises in the region have intensified and that there is ongoing coordination with the United States. He emphasized that commercial air traffic and maritime operations will not be affected and will continue as normal without disruption.
A transponder is an electronic device that allows aircraft to be identified on radar by sending information such as a unique identification code and altitude to air traffic control, helping to prevent mid-air collisions.
The decision comes after at least two recent near-miss incidents in Curaçao’s airspace involving US military aircraft flying without active transponders. Aruba and Curaçao, both former Dutch colonies, are located just a few kilometres from Venezuela.
The United States has recently increased its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying additional troops and naval vessels. On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump stated that Venezuela is now surrounded by “the largest armada in the history of South America.”
The heightened military activity has already affected tourism in the region. Cruise ship Norwegian Epic canceled its scheduled stop in Curaçao at the last minute, removing the island from its itinerary.
Additionally, Dutch broadcaster NOS reported that KLM has implemented extra safety measures for flights to and from Curaçao following the near-miss incidents. These measures include stricter internal safety procedures and ensuring aircraft are as visible as possible while operating in Curaçao’s airspace.
So far, there has been no official confirmation from US authorities regarding the new transponder arrangements, according to NOS.
Photo Credits :https://www.dutchnews.nl/2025/12/us-military-aircraft-to-switch-on-transponders-over-islands/
