In a significant boost to defense collaboration, the Netherlands has unveiled plans for a substantial investment of 248 million euros ($293 million) aimed at joint drone production with Ukraine. This announcement was made by Defense Minister Dilan Yesilgoz-Zegerius during a Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting held in Berlin.
During her address, Yesilgoz-Zegerius emphasized the vital role that drones play in contemporary warfare, particularly noting Ukraine’s adept use of these technologies to counter Russian aggression. “Ukrainians deploy them with incredible skill to repel the incessant Russian attacks. They are very successful in doing so,” she stated, underscoring the effectiveness of these unmanned aerial vehicles in the ongoing conflict.
The minister highlighted the collaboration with Ukraine as mutually beneficial, offering opportunities for both nations. “Thanks to the good cooperation with Ukraine, we learn directly from this. This also offers opportunities for our business community. The close cooperation with Ukraine thereby creates a direct win-win situation for both countries,” she remarked.
While specific details about the production initiatives were not disclosed, the recent investment follows a prior commitment from the Netherlands of 110 million euros ($127 million) designated for the joint development of deep-strike drones with Ukraine. This investment is part of the Build with Ukraine initiative, which supports the establishment of production facilities for Ukrainian defense companies within NATO countries. This strategy aims to protect operations from Russian attacks while simultaneously fostering stronger ties with Western defense industries.
However, challenges remain. Reports indicate that cumbersome bureaucratic processes in the Netherlands may be hindering the swift expansion of Ukrainian defense production in Europe. Denis Shtilerman, Director and Chief Designer of Fire Point, a Ukrainian defense startup specializing in strike drones and missiles, expressed frustration over the delays. “The Netherlands does a lot for us, but waiting a year and a half before you are allowed to build something? We don’t have that time,” he was quoted as saying by the Dutch public broadcaster NOS.
Hans Huigen, Director at the Netherlands Defence and Security Industry Foundation, elaborated on the complexities contributing to these delays. He pointed out that the licensing process for producing offensive weapons and ammunition is notably intricate compared to that for defensive equipment, making investors hesitant to commit funds.
As a potential alternative to mitigate these issues, Huigen suggested the possibility of the Netherlands manufacturing complete drones and supplying missile components, which Ukraine could then assemble. He confirmed that this method is already being implemented in some instances, indicating a path forward despite the existing bureaucratic hurdles.
