The purchase involves a medical container, medical pallets, and carriers for medical equipment. The Brazilian manufacturer Embraer is responsible for the integration and certification of the medical assortment. This can be used, for example, in the C-390 Millennium transport aircraft from the same manufacturer. Defence has ordered 5 of these aircraft, which will be delivered in 2027, 2028, and 2029.
Medical Evacuations
The medical resources enable Defence to evacuate large groups of injured and ill soldiers.
Additionally, the new purchase is a valuable asset for NATO partners and the European Air Transport Command (EATC), which coordinates air transport. Aeromedical Evacuation capabilities are scarce. Having access to them is not only beneficial for the Netherlands but also for partner countries. Moreover, the medical capacity can be deployed during crisis situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Larger Volume
The helicopters of the Defence Helicopter Command (DHC) will also be equipped with equipment carriers. This provides advantages due to a larger volume and standardization of the equipment, which also benefits the training and deployability of medical personnel. Additionally, this ensures that certification is easier, allowing for faster implementation.