Netherlands Special Operations Command (NLD SOCOM) is responsible for deploying special operations forces, with which it carries out special operations, both openly and covertly. These may either be planned operations, or operations that have to be carried out immediately without much time to prepare. They are always high-risk operations that involve a high degree of uncertainty and are of significant political importance to the Netherlands.
Combination of specialists
Special operations are carried out by service personnel of the Commando Corps, Netherlands Maritime Force, 300 Special Operations Squadron and supporting units including intelligence experts, medical specialists, engineers or infantry units. NLD SOCOM also has other specialists among its ranks, experts on data science and drones among them.
NLD SOCOM:
- ensures that the operations of special units run smoothly and that service personnel are ready for deployment;
- monitors quality to guarantee that the units’ capabilities are always clearly defined;
- draws up plans and policies for special operations and purchases materiel;
- assists in the development of new ideas and techniques.
Military personnel are trained extensively by their service branch. NLD SOCOM provides specialised training and equipment for units to ensure that they are able to carry out special operations successfully.
NLD SOCOM reports directly to the Chief of Defence and forms an independent part of the Netherlands Joint Force Command.