Dutch Defense Ministry Expands Industrial and Innovation Capacity
The Hague, Tuesday, 7 October 2025.
The Dutch Ministry of Defense announces partnerships and initiatives to boost defense technology, including a €25 million investment for a production site in Born and anti-drone capabilities.
Strategic Partnerships and Investments
In a bold move to enhance its defense capabilities, the Dutch Ministry of Defense has announced a strategic partnership with VDL Groep, emphasizing the development of a new production facility in Born. This partnership is bolstered by significant financial commitments, with the province of Limburg and VDL contributing €15 million and €10 million respectively towards the project [1]. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to build a robust industrial base and drive innovation within the Dutch defense sector.
Enhancing Anti-Drone Capabilities
In response to evolving security threats, the Ministry is accelerating its efforts to improve its anti-drone capabilities. A new challenge for rapid anti-drone solutions is being launched this year in collaboration with Defport, a public-private platform that includes the Ministries of Defense and Economic Affairs, alongside industry and knowledge institutions [1]. This initiative aims to develop technologies to detect, track, and neutralize unwanted drones, thereby strengthening national security.
Innovation in Munitions and Materials
The Dutch defense sector is also advancing in munitions production, with plans to engage the market by the end of the year to produce safe drone munitions and recycle materials from obsolete munitions [1]. Furthermore, the Ministry is investing €35 million alongside the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science to research smart materials and quantum technologies. These efforts are coordinated by Orchestrating Defence Innovation (ODIN), which aims to foster regional innovation collaborations [1].
Focus on Strategic Autonomy
These initiatives are aligned with the Defense Strategy on Industry and Innovation, which emphasizes strengthening the industrial base (‘strong’), excelling in five key areas (intelligent systems, space technology, sensors, smart materials, and quantum technology), and fostering partnerships (‘together’) [1]. By reducing foreign dependency and enhancing strategic autonomy, the Dutch Ministry of Defense is positioning itself as a leader in defense innovation and industrial capability.