WILLEMSTAD – In a significant gesture of regional partnership and cooperation, the USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul (LCS-21) has arrived in Curaçao as its first port of call during its maiden deployment. The visit by the U.S. Navy’s 4th Fleet Commander and crew highlights the longstanding relationship between Curaçao and the United States, as well as a shared commitment to maritime security and regional stability.
“This visit is not only about operations—it’s about connection,” said the ship’s commander Steven Fresse, who has served in the U.S. Navy for 25 years and has been commanding officer of the vessel for the past eight months. “Coming to Curaçao is an honor and privilege. We’re here to strengthen our face-to-face relationships with the people of Curaçao and our maritime counterparts.”
The USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul, a Littoral Combat Ship commissioned in 2022, is currently on its maiden deployment in the Caribbean. The visit to Curaçao marks its first official port call, a deliberate choice, according to the commander. “We specifically wanted Curaçao to be one of our first stops because of the great culture, longstanding history, and the strong partnership we have here.”
Beyond fostering diplomatic and military ties, the ship’s presence also brings a tangible boost to the local economy. According to officials, more than half a million dollars in fuel and crew spending will directly benefit Curaçao’s economy during the visit.
The visit is part of broader operations conducted under the U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command. “Leadership travels within the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility to engage with country teams, partner nation maritime leaders, and show support when we have U.S. naval ships in port,” a spokesperson stated. “It’s part of sustaining the strong relationships we have with our partners and allies,” said Commander Fresse.
While on deployment, the USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul is engaged in a range of joint operations with regional partners, including counter-drug missions and maritime patrol coordination. The commander emphasized that their work in the region is not solely focused on law enforcement but also on building long-term collaboration.
“We recently conducted two successful drug interdiction operations before arriving here, seizing approximately $12 million worth of narcotics and preventing their transit through the Caribbean,” the commander revealed.
Upcoming plans include a joint counter-UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) tracking exercise with Dutch forces, designed to enhance regional maritime detection and tracking capabilities.
“This deployment is about partnership, stability, and growing together,” the commander concluded. “And Curaçao, with its rich maritime heritage and welcoming people, is the perfect place to continue that mission.”
