IRIA News

5 minute read

The Netherlands is set to revamp its military by reinstating a tank battalion, acquiring additional F-35 fighter jets, and enhancing its naval fleet with anti-submarine frigates. The move comes as part of a broader effort to bolster its defense capabilities in light of increasing global security threats, especially following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The Dutch government announced a substantial defense budget increase of $2.65 billion annually, with $1.66 billion earmarked specifically for “combat power.” This will bring the country’s total defense spending to around $26.53 billion a year, nearly double its 2022 budget. The policy shift, outlined in a defense paper last week, signals the Netherlands’ growing recognition of the need for a more robust and prepared military force capable of deterring potential threats.

The defense paper highlights the necessity of preparing for potential Russian aggression, including the possibility of an attack on NATO allies such as Lithuania or Poland. State Secretary of Defence Gijs Tuinman emphasized that the Netherlands must be ready for a “war of necessity” rather than the “wars of choice” that dominated recent decades.

“The ruthless aggression shows that an attack on the NATO alliance is no longer unthinkable,” said Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans during the policy presentation. “The Netherlands must step up to protect our security. We have to get to work to deter our enemies, guard NATO’s external borders, and prevent further war in Europe. We have no time to lose in this.”

Brekelmans also noted that while the Netherlands appears to be at peace, it is in a “gray zone” where the country faces daily threats to its digital infrastructure, including attacks on systems, companies, ports, and power grids, as well as continuous espionage efforts. He warned that the country must be prepared to defend its national territory and contribute to NATO’s collective defense.

According to Dutch Chief of Defense General Otto Eichelsheim, the reforms represent a significant transformation for the Dutch armed forces. “This is not just a small change. It is a turning point in the history of the Dutch armed forces, and it requires a fundamentally different way of thinking. Instead of meticulously preparing and planning every single mission, shortly our military, and our civilians must simply be ready every day, permanently ready for a large-scale conflict. Because deterrence only works if we are credible,” Eichelsheim remarked.

The government also plans to enshrine a minimum defense spending of 2% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) into law. The 2024 defense budget has already been increased to $23.66 billion, equivalent to 1.95% of GDP, up from $17.03 billion in 2023 and €12.9 billion (US$14.26 billion) in 2022.

As part of its military modernization, the Netherlands will recreate a tank battalion, marking a significant shift after selling its last Leopard 2 tanks in 2011 due to budget constraints. Since 2015, the country has been leasing 18 tanks from Germany but is now expected to purchase around 50 Leopard 2 A8 tanks. The annual cost of maintaining a tank battalion ranges between $287 million and $347.5 million, according to a report to parliament.

Additionally, the Army’s Boxer armored personnel carriers will be outfitted with heavier cannons and anti-tank weaponry to enhance infantry firepower. “The armed forces must grow – in manpower, resources, and in weapon systems,” Brekelmans said. “We will have to innovate, to constantly stay one step ahead of our adversaries.”

The Royal Netherlands Navy will also receive two more anti-submarine warfare frigates and additional NH90 helicopters. Last year, the government ordered two anti-submarine frigates for $2.1 billion and is now prioritizing further underwater defense measures to safeguard subsea infrastructure.

Moreover, the Netherlands plans to expand its fleet of F-35 fighter jets by ordering six more aircraft, adding to the 52 already on the roster. This increase is expected to improve operational readiness and allow for more sustained missions. Brekelmans emphasized the importance of maintaining long-term combat readiness, citing lessons from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

One of the major challenges the Dutch military faces is the slow delivery of equipment and weapons. To address this, the government will invest $1.1 billion to enhance domestic defense production capacity. Tuinman noted that a strong local defense industry is critical for deterrence, as the Netherlands aims to strengthen its defense-industrial base.

With these ambitious plans, the Netherlands is positioning itself as a stronger NATO ally, ready to face the increasing complexities of global conflict and regional security challenges.