A look at the Defence news 1 - 7 September
Last week, Shahed drones launched by Russia posed a threat to NATO territory. The Combined Air Operations Centre in Uedem subsequently alerted two Dutch F-35s stationed in Poland. The fighter aircraft took off immediately.
This was the first time the Dutch F-35s went into action since the Netherlands stationed them there for the protection of East European airspace. Ultimately, the use of weapons proved unnecessary.
European ports conclude drone alliance for innovation and safety
The ports of Rotterdam, Antwerp-Bruges and Hamburg are to start cooperating in the use of drones. The three ports intend to employ them for innovation purposes, safety and efficiency. This initiative will benefit Defence, as a secure and safe port is an essential prerequisite in the event of the supply of military equipment by allies.
Intensive weeks for Dutch firefighting helicopters in Spain
Over the past two weeks, two Dutch Chinook transport helicopters released around three million litres of water in almost 400 drops on wildfires in Northern Spain. The Dutch helicopters were deployed to help fight the bushfires, following a request from Spain.
Mission accomplished by flagship HNLMS De Ruyter
Last week, HNLMS De Ruyter returned to Den Helder. For the past 3.5 months, the Dutch air defence and command frigate served as the flagship of the Standing NATO Maritime Group 1. This fleet is one of NATO’s four permanent maritime task forces.
Navy better prepared for port protection thanks to Sandy Coast
The Royal Netherlands Navy recently joined the Belgian and Estonian navies for two weeks to take part in Exercise Sandy Coast 25. During this training exercise, the main focus was on the protection of the Eemshaven, the port in Delfzijl and data and energy cables. NATO may in future use the Eemshaven for the transit of military equipment.