Dutch military to expand drone warfare across all forces
The Dutch armed forces will significantly expand the use of unmanned weapons systems in the coming years. That is a part of a major defense overhaul outlined in a still confidential defense plan to be presented Monday by Defense Minister Yesilgöz (VVD) and State Secretary Boswijk (CDA), according to NOS. Alongside unmanned warfare, the plan emphasizes digitalization of the armed forces, treating both developments as closely linked.
“Defense is investing heavily in unmanned systems and in defenses against them. Within five years we aim for more than half of our operational effects to be achieved with the help of unmanned systems,” the ministers write. The plan describes a shift toward a faster, smarter, and more flexible military designed for deterrence, defense, and prolonged conflict.
A central driver of the strategy is Russia’s war in Ukraine, where drones and other unmanned systems have become widely used on the battlefield. The document highlights a key lesson: it is inefficient and extremely expensive to use systems such as Patriot air-defense missiles to destroy low-cost drones. It calls for cheaper countermeasures to match those threats.
The Defense Ministry also intends to create a joint “development lab” with the Dutch defense industry. It would be focused on counter-drone technology, meaning systems designed to fight drones with other drones. Funding will also go toward rapid, short-cycle innovation so equipment and tactics can be quickly adapted based on battlefield developments.
All branches of the armed forces will be affected. The navy will be reinforced with relatively simple vessels requiring minimal or no crew. The army will receive a layered system combining drones, counter-drones, and electronic warfare capabilities. The air force will also acquire unmanned systems, though no further details are provided.
At the same time, conventional forces will continue to be expanded. Navy ships will receive additional self-defense systems, and the NH-90 helicopter fleet will be increased.
The army will also grow in combat strength, with investments in heavy mechanized units, armored formations, and the air-mobile brigade. A fourth combat battalion will be added, and engineering units will be strengthened.
The plan includes preparation for a selective form of conscription if voluntary recruitment is insufficient. While service remains voluntary in principle, the system could introduce escalating obligations that may ultimately require mandatory selection and medical screening.
The Royal Marechaussee will expand by ten squadrons, each consisting of about 100 personnel. That is done to aid military police duties, such as border security. The air force will receive additional equipment, including one extra tanker aircraft and more F-35 fighter jets.
The document also reportedly confirms additional F-35 acquisitions but does not specify quantities. It notes that many figures are withheld to prevent adversaries from gaining insight into Dutch military capabilities.
