Defense spending over budget; temporary measures implemented

The Ministry of Defense is taking temporary measures in an effort to cut back on spending and achieve a balanced budget. Despite several budget increases over the past years, the Ministry is still spending more than the budget allows. A spokesperson Defense Minister Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert emphasized to broadcaster NOS that these are not budget cuts, but temporary steps taken at the choice of commanders. The aim is to make sure that Defense stays within its financial limits this year. The measures will not impact investments at all, a spokesperson for the Ministry said to RTL Nieuws. It will however mean less training and fewer jet flights and ship sailings. A large training exercise for the Navy was cancelled to save money, for example. According to the Telegraaf, it also means that vacancies are not being filled and that stocks are being replenished more slowly than planned.