During the so-called Rail Drink with the theme Military Mobility, the role of the rail for international military use was central.

Politicians, companies from the rail sector, and representatives from governments and knowledge institutions spoke about this.

Military and civil interests on the rail are inextricably linked. “The Netherlands is essential as a logistics hub via the ports of Rotterdam, Vlissingen, and Eemshaven for the rapid movement of military equipment within Europe,” said Eichelsheim. This already happens regularly through the so-called Host Nation Support. “This makes the rail an indispensable part of our national security and NATO obligations.”

According to the general, the armed forces are also dependent on a strong civil rail sector. Not only does the Dutch economy benefit from this, but Defence also gains from it. A good rail network, according to Eichelsheim, also has a deterrent effect on opponents. “The enemy is already examining what the weak points are to sabotage and disrupt.”

However, there are still some challenges to further strengthen the rail route. For instance, there are shortages of particularly technical personnel. Additionally, the parties in the sector are calling for more room regarding legislation and regulations. This includes, for example, easing strict nitrogen and ecological rules.

The general also looked at the situation in Ukraine during his speech. The country has more than 20,000 kilometers of rail. This gives it one of the largest national rail networks in the world. After the war began, trains took on a different purpose. Trains shifted from being a means of transport for civilians to a means that is also used militarily. For example, for the transport of military equipment and the evacuation of the wounded. “For Ukraine, the resilience of the rail network became a symbol of the resilience of the people.”

Defence is working with civil parties to strengthen mutual cooperation. The parties are also looking at the use of casualty trains during times of conflict. Furthermore, a speed adjustment has already been made for, among others, defense trains at Hengelo. This allows them to pass the location without having to keep the adjacent track clear. Military transport thus arrives a day earlier in the east. “And that really makes a difference when it matters.”