By Mukesh 
The Royal Netherlands Navy ship HNLMS De Ruyter (F804), a De Zeven Provinciën-class frigate, arrived at Kochi on May 4 as part of an Indo-Pacific deployment, marking a significant step in strengthening maritime cooperation between India and the Netherlands.
The Indian Navy said that the warship was escorted into harbour by an Indian Navy fast interceptor craft and accorded a ceremonial welcome with a naval band. The visit coincides with a high-level Dutch delegation’s trip to the Southern Naval Command, led by Rob De Wit, Deputy Commander of the Royal Netherlands Navy, and Marisa Gerards.
The frigate is currently on a five-month Indo-Pacific deployment and is scheduled to participate in multiple maritime exercises with partner nations, underlining the Netherlands’ growing engagement in the region, it added.
Cooperation in maritime domain
During the visit, the Dutch delegation met with Rear Admiral Prakash Gopalan, Chief of Staff, Southern Naval Command. Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in the maritime domain, including training, operational engagement and exchange of best practices.
In a solemn gesture marking the Netherlands’ National Remembrance Day, the delegation laid wreaths at the SNC War Memorial, paying tribute to fallen personnel.
The visit also includes engagements at key training establishments under the Southern Naval Command, where the delegation will witness advanced simulators and modern training infrastructure. A visit to Cochin Shipyard Limited is also scheduled to explore opportunities in shipbuilding and industrial collaboration.
Earlier this year, Maj. Gen. Rob De Wit took part in the IONS Conclave of Chiefs during MILAN 2026 held in Visakhapatnam.
On departure, HNLMS De Ruyter will undertake a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with an Indian Naval ship, aimed at enhancing interoperability and operational synergy between the two navies.