US company General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) and the Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) have formalised an agreement to co-develop advanced defence capabilities.
The partners will initially develop a small uncrewed aircraft system (SUAS) intended for multi-role intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) roles.
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According to GA-ASI, the new platform will be cost-effective and capable of accommodating a range of operationally relevant payloads and capabilities.
The partners will create a business to facilitate scalable production of the SUAS, potentially meeting high-demand scenarios.
GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue said: “This contract is the first step in a strategic partnership with the Dutch MoD that will ultimately contribute to the defence of Ukraine and NATO by creating a versatile European defence system.”
In the initial phase, GA-ASI and the Dutch MoD will work together to develop UAS manufacturing capabilities within the Netherlands.
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By GlobalDataVDL Defentec, a Netherlands-based company specialising in military vehicle production, has been selected to manage contract manufacturing for the SUAS.
GA-ASI will provide VDL Defentec with detailed knowledge necessary for design, production, logistics, and ongoing support related to deploying this new technology.
The SUAS is expected to conduct its maiden flight before the end of this year.
Plans are in place for low-rate initial production to commence by 2026, with operations set both in the US and the Netherlands.
Dutch Arms Procurement and Personnel Minister Gijs Tuinman said: “Together with GA we will be increasing innovative SUAS capabilities and advancing technical knowhow in the Netherlands. This project is an example of strategic trans-Atlantic collaboration that supports our defence and technological base as we contribute to the defence of Ukraine and Nato by creating a versatile European defence system and working with a strong US partner.”
The Dutch government is reinforcing its military capabilities as part of a broader response to emerging threats, particularly in Europe.
This initiative aligns with recent developments in Dutch defence policy, which include an increase in the defence budget from €22bn ($25.7bn) in 2024 to €24bn ($28bn) by 2025.
