Key facts
- The Netherlands will announce defence deals and plans exceeding €3 billion at a NATO forum in Ankara.
- These agreements include partnerships with Belgium on air defence and with Britain on naval ships.
- The Netherlands is also exploring increased joint defence projects with Germany.
- The announcements are part of a broader effort by NATO members to showcase increased defence spending.
- Dutch Defence Minister Dilan Yesilgoz stated the need for mutual engagement within NATO.
The Netherlands is set to announce defence deals and plans valued at over €3 billion at a NATO forum in Ankara, according to Dutch Defence Minister Dilan Yesilgoz. The announcements, scheduled for Tuesday, precede a summit of NATO leaders.
Yesilgoz stated that the planned deals include partnerships with Belgium on air defence and with Britain on naval ships, with further joint projects being considered with Germany. She emphasized that these are concrete plans, not just pledges, and represent a significant increase in Dutch defence investment.
The proclamations are part of a coordinated effort by NATO members to demonstrate increased defence spending ahead of the alliance's summit, a move encouraged by U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump is expected to attend the summit, which begins Tuesday evening.
When asked about U.S. commitment to NATO, Yesilgoz expressed confidence in the alliance's necessity, stating, "I have to be confident, because I know that we need each other." She added that it is beneficial for Europe to invest more in its own defence capabilities, irrespective of the U.S. administration.