The US State Department has approved a potential $294 million sale of aircraft defensive systems and related support to the Netherlands.
The proposed package includes 16 OT-228/U Common Infrared Countermeasure systems and 38 AN/APR-39E(V)2 radar warning receivers.
Infrared countermeasure systems help protect aircraft against heat-seeking missiles, while radar warning receivers alert crews to radar threats.
The package also includes technical assistance, engineering work, training, transportation, and logistics support.
According to the State Department, the equipment would support Dutch military modernization and improve interoperability with US and allied forces.
Northrop Grumman’s Rolling Meadows, Illinois, operation would serve as the principal contractor.
Implementing the proposed sale would not require additional US government or contractor personnel to be assigned to the Netherlands.
Recent Dutch Defense Procurement
The proposed sale follows other Dutch moves to expand its military capabilities.
Earlier this month, Kongsberg signed a 1.5-billion-Norwegian-krone ($155 million) contract to expand the Netherlands’ CITADEL air defense program.
The order includes additional National Maneuver Air Defence Systems (NOMADS) and capacity for the country’s existing National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System.
Mounted on armored vehicles, NOMADS combines radar, command and control, and missiles to protect mobile ground forces against threats such as drones, helicopters, and cruise missiles.
In September, Amsterdam signed a letter of intent with Sweden to acquire a Saab GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft.
The move forms part of a wider effort by 11 NATO members to jointly procure up to 10 aircraft as a replacement for the alliance’s aging E-3A Sentry fleet.
Earlier this year, the Dutch defense ministry also signed a long-term framework agreement with Saab for Barracuda mobile camouflage systems.
An initial order covers Fennek reconnaissance vehicles and Panzerhaubitze 2000NL self-propelled howitzers, with options to equip other vehicle types.