De Ruyter back in ‘other’ Netherlands after five months of mission Inland

Already in Den Helder, where the ship left at the end of January before the corana outbreak, the navy men first encountered a ‘different’ Netherlands. For example, in connection with the corona measures, the family was not allowed to attend the ceremony, in which commander of the armed forces Rob Bauer awarded the crew a commemorative medal. The collectors waited in the parking lot and family could watch the ceremony via streaming.

During the Agenor mission, the air defense and command frigate’s main task was to map out the security situation in the Strait of Hormuz and thus contribute to free passage. The reason for the small observation mission, under French leadership, was attacks on oil tankers in the area last year.

According to the Americans, Iran was behind it, but Tehran denied that. The Americans also have a maritime mission in the area, but the cabinet consciously chose a European mission, because the Americans are pushing for maximum pressure on Iran.

In addition to military efforts, European countries are also attempting to reduce tensions in the region through diplomatic channels. According to the French, the mission also shows that Europe is ready to guarantee its own security. Denmark will succeed the Dutch in a few weeks with a navy ship.

The past few months have been quieter in the area crucial to the oil trade. There were no incidents involving De Ruyter, a navy spokesman said.

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