Hegseth had a clear message for European countries. They need to do more for the security on their continent so that the United States can focus more on China.
Brekelmans: “The task is clear. European allies need to do more to ensure our security and deter Russia. Rapid scaling up of the defense industry is crucial in this regard. We must do everything we can to increase our production capacity.”
Defence Investment Pledge
Brekelmans and Hegseth discussed among other things the defense industry and the spending norm, the Defence Investment Pledge. Brekelmans emphasized that the Netherlands has significantly increased its investments in Defence. At the same time, he acknowledged that the increasing security threats require even more efforts.
The minister also met his new Belgian colleague Theo Francken. The Netherlands and Belgium have traditionally been loyal partners, and particularly the naval cooperation is very intensive. Both ministers look forward to further strengthening the cooperation.
Support for Ukraine
It is important that all allies maintain long-term support for Ukraine. The Netherlands is a leader and spent more than € 3 billion on that last year.
Minister Brekelmans spoke with colleague ministers of the Air Force Capability Coalition for Ukraine. Due to massive Russian airstrikes, Ukraine urgently needs reinforcement of its air force. The country has recently received a new batch of Dutch F-16s.
Brekelmans: “We must continue to provide the complete package, including spare parts, ammunition, and training. This is necessary to keep the F-16s in the air and help modernize the Ukrainian air force.”
Agreements
The allies also agreed to establish a forum for information exchange on air and missile defense. Additionally, they will explore opportunities for cooperation in so-called passive air reconnaissance, which involves sensors and systems that detect and track aerial objects without actively emitting signals.