Accelerated innovation and scaling up, along with higher production of military equipment. Moreover, ensuring delivery is the main goal of the Defport launched today. Within this public-private platform, the ministries of Defence and Economic Affairs will now collaborate with industry, banks, and knowledge institutions. This closer cooperation is a prerequisite for a strong Dutch defense industry, contributing to a robust armed forces.

There is war in Europe and unrest elsewhere in the world. Therefore, Defence and the business sector are preparing for a possible armed conflict. Defence focuses on the defense of its own and NATO territory. Strengthening the armed forces is a must. For this, close cooperation with the Dutch industry is necessary.

To strengthen the armed forces, a rapid and long-term scaling up of military equipment is required. This demands more production, at a higher pace and a greater degree of delivery reliability. A sustained supply of materials and maintenance is necessary to enhance the sustainability of the armed forces. All this requires better alignment between the needs and capabilities of the business sector and the government. Defport structurally brings these parties together.

At Defport, parties involved play an essential role in the required scaling up and delivery reliability. Within the platform, the involved parties make agreements about concrete projects and conditions. The principle is that production takes place as much as possible in the Netherlands. This strengthens the strategic position in an international context. Moreover, it benefits the domestic economy.

Defport now starts as a partnership between Defence, Economic Affairs, the defense industry (NIDV), VNO-NCW, the high-tech sector (FME), the Dutch Banking Association (NVB), and the knowledge institutions (TNO, NLR & MARIN).