The Netherlands has signed a new agreement with Ukraine to jointly manufacture military drones in both countries, marking a deeper phase of bilateral defense cooperation.
Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans announced the deal on Monday in a post on X, describing it as part of the “Build with Ukraine” program, which he signed together with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.
Brekelmans called the agreement a milestone that strengthens “our shared security, resilience and innovation.”
In June, the Dutch government concluded contracts with Ukrainian companies to produce 600,000 drones worth roughly €500 million. The new pact expands that cooperation, with both sides set to co-develop advanced drone systems and accelerate the production of successful prototypes.
The Dutch Ministry of Defense announced in October that drone-assembly lines would be established at the VDL facility in Born. The ministry noted that the equipment produced there will reinforce both the Dutch and Ukrainian armed forces.
Brekelmans said the first production lines are expected to become operational within the coming months, underscoring the rapid pace of the defense-industrial partnership.
Follow the latest news on Google News
