Ukraine will have access to 100 drone detection radars. These systems are capable of detecting drones and passing this information to air defense systems that can neutralize the drones. The delivery of the detection radars must be completed by the end of the year.

Additionally, 20 Ermine casevac (partially) unmanned vehicles are being sent to Ukraine. The country can use these modular systems to evacuate the wounded. Finally, the Netherlands is making an additional €80 million available for drones. This support will go through the international drone coalition. Earlier, the Netherlands announced an investment of €20 million in this. The new support package comes on top of the €400 million package for maritime security that was recently announced.

Furthermore, the Netherlands has recently signed contracts with the Ukrainian industry for the production of 600,000 drones. This involves a package of €500 million for drones that Ukraine urgently needs at the front line. This so-called Drone Line Initiative helps ensure that Russia is unable to break through.

“The relentless Russian airstrikes demonstrate daily that air defense is literally a matter of life and death for Ukraine. That is why it is so important that we can deliver the drone detection radars. Additionally, it is a significant step that we have signed large production contracts with the Ukrainian drone industry and are increasing our support by another €80 million. Thus, drones and unmanned systems are the new spearhead in our support for Ukraine.”

The minister added that the Netherlands will continue its support for Ukraine unwaveringly.

“For 3.5 years, the tireless Ukrainian troops have been fighting at the front against Russian aggression. The Ukrainian troops are supported by an incredibly resilient and steadfast population. I have immense respect for this. Besides strengthening our own armed forces, supporting Ukraine is the best way to halt the cruel Russian expansionist drive. Therefore, we remain determined in our support for Ukraine.”