Limburg factory that once built BMWs to become military production hub
The former VDL Nedcar auto factory in Born, Limburg, will be partially converted into a military production facility under an agreement between the Dutch Ministry of Defense and industrial group VDL. The plant, which previously manufactured Mini models for BMW until early 2024, will now host multiple defense-related companies specializing in military drones and vehicles, NOS reports.
The Dutch government will cover part of the costs, including rent for the facility, as part of a broader push to strengthen European defense manufacturing. “This will be a flagship project of the renewed collaboration between defense and industry,” the ministry stated.
The shift in production is part of a wider strategy to expand military manufacturing within the Netherlands and reduce reliance on non-European suppliers. “By increasing our domestic military production capacity, we make ourselves less dependent on countries outside Europe,” said Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans. “Investing in our European and national defense industry is crucial.”
The Born factory has a long history of automobile production, dating back to 1967. It previously assembled vehicles for brands including BMW, Mitsubishi, and Volvo. However, operations came to a halt when BMW ended its contract in early 2024, leading to more than 4,000 job losses.
Since then, VDL has been searching for a new purpose for the plant. For months, speculation swirled that drone production could be a key focus. During a visit to the site, Minister Brekelmans alluded to the demand for large-scale drone manufacturing. “Many Dutch companies currently produce dozens or hundreds of drones per year, but we need thousands. That can be done in Born. If we can integrate that into this facility, we have a winning combination,” he said.
VDL Chairman Willem van der Leegte expressed confidence in the factory’s ability to transition into military production. “We have been recognized multiple times as one of the best car factories in Europe. That means we can manufacture many other high-quality products as well,” he said.
Despite optimism from VDL, labor representatives warn that the transition will take time. “It’s not that simple,” said Ed Leunissen of labor union CNV. “A completely new production line needs to be built, and workers must be hired. Many of the original employees have moved on.” Leunissen estimates that it could take at least a year before production fully ramps up.
Still, he acknowledged the potential benefits of the conversion. “It is unfortunate that we have to scale up the defense industry due to war, but if it must happen, why not here?” He pointed out the factory’s logistical advantages, including its own energy plant and proximity to major highways and neighboring countries. Additionally, around 400 former workers remain unemployed and could return to work if given stable prospects.
However, Leunissen cautioned against a short-term approach. “What happens if Donald Trump suddenly mends ties with Europe? Will we go back to buying defense equipment from the U.S. to appease him? Workers won’t return to the factory just because it’s their old workplace; they need long-term stability.”
The European defense sector has reportedly been under pressure to increase production since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The war exposed weaknesses in Europe’s defense manufacturing capacity and its heavy reliance on foreign suppliers. The urgency to boost self-sufficiency has grown further under the possibility of a U.S. administration that may reduce NATO commitments.
The European Commission recently announced an 800 billion euros investment over the next four years to strengthen defense capabilities. The Netherlands’ collaboration with VDL reportedly aligns with this broader initiative to ensure Europe can produce military equipment at scale.
