Aruba is once again at the center of international military cooperation as Dutch and U.S. marines join forces for the Caribbean Coastal Warrior exercise, an annual joint training initiative aimed at strengthening operational coordination and enhancing tactical readiness.
This year’s edition brings together the Netherlands’ Marine Squadron Carib and the U.S. 2nd Marine Division, who are engaging in specialized dive training off Aruba’s coast. The focus is on mastering tactical diving techniques using rebreather systems—advanced technology that allows for extended, silent underwater missions, crucial for covert operations in coastal environments.
“This exercise builds critical underwater skills and fosters close collaboration between allied forces,” said a Dutch marine instructor on-site.
A Strategic Alliance Underwater
The training emphasizes precision, endurance, and stealth, enabling marines to conduct operations with maximum discretion. By using rebreathers—devices that do not release visible bubbles—divers can approach targets undetected, making the sessions not only physically demanding but strategically invaluable.
Strengthening Regional Defense Ties
These joint exercises are part of a larger partnership between the Dutch and American marine forces, with annual training programs rotating between the Caribbean and the United States. They serve to improve interoperability and mutual understanding between NATO allies operating in coastal and tropical environments.
“Exercises like Caribbean Coastal Warrior are essential to maintaining regional security and rapid-response capability in this part of the world,” said a U.S. military representative.
As Aruba hosts this phase of the program, the island continues to play a vital role in fostering international cooperation and military excellence in the Caribbean region.
