The Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard will receive three new cutters within the next three years to replace the vessels currently operating in the region.
Earlier this week, the Dutch Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Damen Workboats for the construction of three medium-sized patrol vessels for the Caribbean Coast Guard. The contract was finalized following a public procurement process.
The new patrol vessels, commonly known as cutters, will replace the existing vessels Poema, Panter, and Jaguar, which have been in service for more than 25 years. The new vessels are expected to begin operating in the Dutch Caribbean region around early 2029.
Important Role in Maritime Security
The cutters will be used by the Caribbean Coast Guard, which is responsible for maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, border control, patrol duties, and maintaining law and order at sea.
Dutch authorities say the new vessels will help modernize operations and improve the Coast Guard’s ability to carry out its missions across the Caribbean waters.
Larger and More Advanced Patrol Vessels
The current cutters began operating in the Caribbean during the late 1990s and belong to the Damen Stan Patrol 4100 class. Although they have served reliably for many years, their age has resulted in increasing maintenance costs.
The new vessels will be the more advanced Stan Patrol 5009 model, measuring approximately 50 meters in length, making them larger than the current ships.
According to the Dutch Ministry of Defence, the increased size will allow the vessels to operate more effectively in the often rough sea conditions in the Caribbean.
The new cutters will also be equipped with modern surveillance technology, including:
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Advanced radar systems
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Infrared cameras
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Improved monitoring equipment
These systems will allow crews to maintain effective maritime surveillance even at night or during poor visibility.
New High-Speed Interceptor Boats
In addition to the cutters, Damen Shipyards will also deliver four high-speed interceptor boats.
Each cutter will carry one interceptor boat designed to quickly pursue and intercept fast vessels such as “go-fast” boats, which are often used in drug smuggling operations across the Caribbean.
An additional interceptor boat will be used for training and maintenance rotation.
The new interceptor boats are larger and designed to maintain high speeds even in rough sea conditions, improving the Coast Guard’s ability to respond quickly during maritime operations.
Strengthening Regional Security
With the arrival of the new cutters and interceptor boats, the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard will have more modern equipment better suited to current operational challenges.
Officials say the vessels will play an important role in strengthening maritime security, law enforcement, and safety across the Caribbean region.
