The Netherlands is investing 248 million euros ($293 million) in a joint drone production program with Ukraine, with manufacturing set to take place in both countries. Defence Minister Dilan Yesilgöz-Zegerius announced the initiative in Berlin after a Ukraine Defence Contact Group meeting. The decision follows a previous Dutch pledge of 110 million euros to collaborate with Ukraine on deep-strike drone production.
The funding comes under the “Build with Ukraine” initiative, designed to enable Ukrainian defense firms to establish production in NATO countries, reducing vulnerability to Russian strikes while enhancing cooperation with Western defense industries. Nevertheless, excessive regulatory processes are reportedly hindering Ukrainian companies from scaling operations in Europe, including within the Netherlands.
Among the companies affected is Fire Point, known for producing strike drones and the F-5 Flamingo cruise missile. Hans Huigen noted that the licensing process for offensive systems is significantly more complex than for defensive equipment, contributing to delays in production expansion.
