Netherlands expands space operations with four new military satellites
The Dutch military is expanding its space operations with four new satellites designed to strengthen intelligence gathering and secure communications, De Telegraaf reports. The satellites, scheduled for deployment over the next two years, are expected to bolster the Netherlands' strategic foothold in space—an increasingly critical domain in modern warfare.
The first two satellites are scheduled for launch in June and October 2025, followed by the remaining two in the second quarter of 2026. A key focus of the initiative is bolstering surveillance in the North Sea, where Russian vessels have been suspected of mapping undersea cables and pipelines. Additionally, the satellites will enhance the military’s capacity to track troop movements on land, providing crucial intelligence for defense and military planning.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense confirmed that the Netherlands is actively working on the satellites. “Information dominance is of decisive military importance. It is indispensable for modern warfare, the safety of our troops, and a resilient society,” the spokesperson stated.
In the past, the Dutch military has relied on commercial space firms, including Virgin Orbit, which launched the Brik-II mini-satellite in 2021. Now, to reduce dependence on private companies, the Ministry of Defense is exploring a partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA). But ESA's launch schedule and competing priorities could reportedly pose challenges.
“It would be beneficial if ESA handled the launch,” said Patrick Bolder, of The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies, to De Telegraaf. “Europe is working to become less dependent on American and Russian space infrastructure.”
Bolder pointed out that earlier Dutch military satellite launches had even considered using Russian Soyuz rockets—an option that is no longer viable due to geopolitical tensions. “Those days are over,” he added.
The war in Ukraine has reportedly highlighted the critical role of satellite communication in modern warfare. According to the Ministry of Defense, networks like Starlink have been “game-changers,” allowing secure communication between military headquarters and front-line units.
