The Netherlands is acquiring air defense systems, tanks, and jets to enhance defense capabilities as outlined in its White Paper released last month.
The Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) filed a recommendation to Parliament to procure the National Maneuver Air Defence System (NOMADS) and the National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS) from Kongsberg.
Additionally, 46 Leopard 2 A8 battle tanks were selected for interoperability with Germany and to meet the country’s commitment to NATO’s defense plans in deterring potential aggressors like Russia.
The MoD also selected eight Pilatus PC-7 Mk X trainers and two flight simulators to replace its aging fleet of 13 PC-7 trainers used by the Air Force’s Elementary Military Pilot Training school at Woensdrecht Air Base since 1988.
Extended Air Defense
The medium- to long-range NASAMS can repel a wide range of aerial threats, from aircraft to UAVs, and deploy various munitions like the AIM-9X Sidewinder missile.
To further extend air defense capabilities, it is complemented by the short-range NOMADS, which protects ground forces in rough terrain. It is fully integrated with the NASAMS and other NATO systems for interoperability.
Both systems are under the 11-billion Norwegian Krone ($1 billion) contract to be signed in late 2024, with deliveries slated to begin by 2028.
“This forthcoming acquisition underscores NASAMS’s position as the world leading medium range air defence system, and the importance of NOMADS as an effective complement to NASAMS, offering a mobile and integrated air defence solution for NATO allies,” Kongsberg President Eirik Lie said.
Tank Battalion Revitalization
Under a 1-billion to 2.5-billion-euro ($1 billion to $2.7 billion) budget, the Dutch MoD has procured 46 Leopard 2 A8 tanks, along with spare parts, maintenance contracts, and training, instead of the usual 52 for an operational battalion.
The ministry is considering incorporating unmanned systems for ground, air, and marine operations into its army’s combat capabilities.
However, finalizing the other optional six tanks will be done in 2027, depending on the progress and feasibility of the unmanned systems.
The Netherlands will reintroduce modern battle tanks by 2027, and aims to achieve full tank battalion operational status by 2030.
The move will restore heavy armor capabilities to the Dutch army, which were phased out in 2011 due to budget cuts.
“Tanks are essential for the combat power of the armed forces. They have heavy armament and offer protection against enemy fire. With the reintroduction of the battle tank, the Netherlands is strengthening the combat power of the armed forces. In doing so, we are also fulfilling what NATO requires of the Netherlands.” said State Secretary Gijs Tuinman.
Pilatus on Hold
The defense ministry looked for a replacement training aircraft that is “relatively easy and predictable to control. The student and instructor must also operate safely in it under conditions that demand the utmost from the training aircraft.”
Out of the two bidders, “the products of the Swiss company Pilatus best meet the requirements of Defence. This company has been provisionally awarded the contract.”
However, the unnamed losing bidder has filed a summary proceeding against the MoD. This means that a judge’s ruling in favor of the defense ministry is required before the contract with Pilatus can be signed.
The delivery of the aircraft and related equipment is expected in 2027.
