A look at the Defence news 30 June – 6 July 2025
Geopolitical conflicts are increasingly taking place in space. For that reason, the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) has changed its name to ‘Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force’. The new name emphasizes that the air force provides not only air power, but also space power.
Royal Netherlands Navy prepares for NATO tasks in American waters
In recent weeks, the US east coast was the scene of Exercise Atlantic Alliance 2025. The Netherlands is taking part in the exercise with the Maritime Battle Staff, HNLMS Johan de Witt, Marine Corps units and helicopters. Together with colleagues from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, they are preparing both on and above the water for NATO missions scheduled for the coming year.
HNLMS De Ruyter launches missile near Scotland
Last week, air defence and command frigate HNLMS De Ruyter launched an Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile on the Hebrides Range, just off the coast of Scotland. Practising this type of launch can be simulated, but on this occasion a real missile was fired at a drone. Training for this kind of launch is important to the navy. By taking part in the exercise, the navy both tests and monitors the readiness of its personnel and materiel.
Another catch: HNLMS Friesland intercepts 511 kilos of cocaine
HNLMS Friesland has once again intercepted a drug shipment in the Caribbean. After a chase, the naval vessel seized a large quantity of cocaine. The interception took place on 4 November, but was announced only last week.