Defense adjust training after Dutch soldier killed during military exercise in Germany
The Dutch Ministry of Defense has adjusted its military exercises following the death of 28-year-old soldier Ewout van de Lustgraaf from Zwolle, who was fatally injured during a training exercise in Germany when an infantry fighting vehicle unexpectedly rolled down a hill, according to De Stentor.
The accident occurred last year on the Hohenfels training area in Bavaria, Germany, when the engine of a CV90 infantry fighting vehicle reportedly failed as it rolled backward from a steep hill. Van de Lustgraaf, who grew up in Hasselt, was run over by the vehicle. A 24-year-old colleague managed to jump to safety. Van de Lustgraaf died from his injuries.
An investigation by the Defense Safety Inspectorate (Inspectie Veiligheid Defensie, IVD) described the incident as an “unfortunate combination of circumstances” but also highlighted several critical issues.
The inspectorate noted that multiple factors contributed to the vehicle stopping on the hill, including its steep angle, possible engine power loss due to a clogged fuel filter, and the vehicle’s tracks losing grip on a rocky patch.
After halting, the vehicle allegedly rolled slightly backward. “If the control computer receives a signal that a CV90 is rolling backward, the engine shuts down,” the report explains. “The driver can no longer steer, only brake.”
The investigation also found that CV90 drivers were unaware that the engine could stall when the vehicle rolled backward. This information was reportedly not included in the vehicle’s manuals, and personnel had no prior experience with such scenarios. As a result, Defense said it will now ensure drivers gain more experience on new terrains before engaging in larger and more complex exercises.
Historical maintenance reports from 2014 regarding engine power and fuel filter issues were reportedly known but never fully addressed. The CV90’s fuel and water separation filters will now be replaced more frequently to prevent power loss.
All recommendations from the inspectorate have been implemented. “The accident has once again reminded us of the risks that, unfortunately, are part of the work of our military personnel,” said Defense Secretary Gijs Tuinman.
A judicial investigation also followed the accident. The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee, under the Public Prosecution Service, conducted a so-called “facts investigation,” standard procedure when a soldier dies under non-natural circumstances.
“The conclusion is that this was a fatal accident,” said Public Prosecution Service spokesperson Martine Baar. “No criminal investigation took place, and no one has been prosecuted.”
