Kongsberg has signed an agreement with Oshkosh Defense Europe to integrate PROTECTOR RS4 remote weapon stations equipped with counter-UAS capabilities on Oshkosh Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) for delivery to the Netherlands.
The RS4 is a combat-proven, modular remote weapon station capable of mounting small- and medium-caliber weapons, coaxial weapons, and anti-tank guided missiles. Equipped with PROTECTOR Counter-UAS software, it can use its mounted gun to engage drones, with the software providing detection, tracking, and fire-control functions.
Kongsberg is also integrating Echodyne’s MESA radar into its PROTECTOR RS4 and RS6 weapon stations to improve drone detection and tracking. The radar provides range, range rate, bearing, and other data to complement optical sensors, support firing solutions, and help determine detonation points for programmable airburst ammunition.
Separately, the Netherlands has selected Oshkosh Defense to produce 150 Dutch Expeditionary Patrol Vehicles based on the JLTV.
“The increasing use of drones in modern conflicts highlights the importance of robust and adaptable Counter-UAS solutions,” Executive Vice President of KONGSBERG and President of the Defence Systems division, Kjetil Reiten Myhra, said.
“This delivery will provide Dutch forces with a proven capability designed to enhance force protection and operational effectiveness against a wide range of aerial threats.”
Oshkosh Defense Chief Programs Officer Pat Williams said the “JLTV was designed as an open architecture platform to rapidly integrate best-in-class technologies like KONGSBERG’s PROTECTOR CUAS.”
“This partnership demonstrates how proven platforms can quickly deliver advanced capabilities and will enhance European and NATO resilience to today’s threats. We’re proud to provide the Dutch Armed Forces with a solution that combines the JLTV’s mobility and survivability with KONGSBERG’s counter-UAS expertise.”
Netherlands Steps Up Counter-UAS Efforts
The agreement is part of a broader Dutch effort to strengthen defenses against unmanned aircraft and modernize its military fleet.
The Netherlands is upgrading its Boxer armored vehicles with new anti-drone systems as part of a midlife update after more than a decade of service.
In December, the Dutch Ministry of Defence ordered 100 drone-detection radars from local company Robin Radar for use around airbases, critical infrastructure, and military sites. The radars can distinguish drones from birds and other moving objects.
The Netherlands also selected Rheinmetall Air Defence that month to supply Skyranger air defense systems under a deal worth a high triple-digit million-euro amount, with deliveries scheduled for 2028 and 2029.
More recently, the Dutch Ministry of Defence signed a letter of intent with Australian defense firm EOS to develop its Apollo counter-drone high-energy laser prototype into a fully operational weapon system and explore production in the Netherlands.
