Dutch Drone Company Avy Pivots to Military Applications Amid Rising Global Security Threats
Amsterdam, Thursday, 19 February 2026.
Netherlands-based Avy has transformed its commercial drone technology for dual-use military applications, positioning the company at the forefront of Europe’s defense innovation push. Led by former army officer Niels Blij, Avy’s weather-resistant long-range drones and strategic docking stations are now being evaluated by Dutch armed forces for reconnaissance, infrastructure monitoring, and medical supply missions. This strategic pivot reflects the urgent need for domestic defense capabilities as geopolitical tensions escalate globally. Avy exemplifies how civilian tech companies can rapidly adapt to serve national security needs while maintaining commercial operations, offering a blueprint for other Dutch firms to follow.
Technical Capabilities Drive Defense Interest
Avy’s transition to dual-use applications stems from the unique technical specifications of their drone systems. The company develops long-range drones that operate from specialized docking stations, engineered specifically to withstand extreme weather conditions [1]. This weather-resistant capability, combined with the strategic placement of docking stations, enables significantly reduced response times in emergency situations, particularly for medical supply transport and reconnaissance missions [1]. According to Niels Blij, head of Defense Innovations & Relations at Avy, this combination of weather-resistant long-range drones and flexibly deployable docking stations makes their technology particularly suitable for defense applications [1]. The strategic value extends beyond durability - the docking station infrastructure allows drones to remain positioned near operational areas, dramatically cutting response times when rapid deployment becomes critical [1].
Military Applications Under Evaluation
The Dutch armed forces are currently evaluating Avy’s drone technology for multiple military applications, with discussions ongoing across different branches of the military [1]. The potential defense use cases span reconnaissance operations, infrastructure monitoring, supply route surveillance, and medical supply transport [1]. Blij, who brings eight years of experience from the Landmacht (Dutch army), explains that their dual-use technology makes drones particularly valuable for countries with remote or inhospitable territories [1]. The strategic placement of docking stations at key locations ensures drone availability for rapid response during emergency situations, whether for medical supply delivery or situational assessment [1]. This capability positions Avy’s technology as especially relevant for modern defense needs, where rapid reconnaissance and supply chain security have become increasingly critical [1].
Regional Defense Innovation Framework
Avy’s defense pivot operates within a broader North Holland regional initiative designed to accelerate dual-use technology development. The Regioteam Defensie Noord-Holland facilitates collaboration between the Dutch Ministry of Defense, provincial authorities, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, companies, and ROM InWest specifically for dual-use innovations [1]. Blij serves as chairman of the Bedrijvenvertegenwoordiging steering group within this regional team, acting as the collective voice of regional companies toward the Ministry of Defense [1]. The steering group’s primary function involves identifying opportunities, building valuable connections, and creating bridges to defense agencies while helping companies with potential dual-use technology establish faster contact with military procurement [1]. This streamlined approach addresses previous inefficiencies in defense-industry communication, with Blij noting that traditional connection pathways often proved too lengthy for current security requirements [1].
Strategic Timing and Market Implications
The urgency behind Avy’s defense transition reflects broader geopolitical pressures affecting European security policy. Blij emphasizes that current global threats require immediate investment in technology and cooperation during peacetime, ensuring defense infrastructure readiness when needed [1]. This proactive approach to defense preparation contrasts with previous reactive models, positioning companies like Avy to contribute to national strategic autonomy while reducing dependence on foreign technology suppliers [1]. The dual-use model offers significant market advantages, allowing companies to maintain civilian revenue streams while developing defense capabilities, thereby creating more sustainable business models in an uncertain security environment [1]. For other North Holland companies considering similar transitions, Avy’s experience provides a practical framework for navigating the complex regulatory and operational requirements of defense contracting while maintaining commercial viability [1].