News item | 04-06-2025 | 18:54
The Netherlands has announced a new maritime support package for Ukraine with a total value of around 400 million. It consists of more than 100 fast patrol boats and military vessels for special operations. Minister Ruben Brekelmans announced this today during a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group In Brussels.
The vessels are equipped with numerous sensors, weapons and communication systems. Also dozens of maritime drones belong to the package. The first deliveries have already been made and continue until 2026.
“It is an important package to strengthen the maritime safety of Ukraine. We see that the Russian threat on, among other things, the Black Sea and the DnjePR river is only getting bigger,” said Brekelmans. “The port of Odessa and the trade routes that run through the Black Sea are considered the lifeblood of the Ukrainian economy. Without the right protection it can collapse. We simply cannot let that happen.”
The Netherlands also puts 20 million in it Maritime Regional Training Center. Ukrainian marines are trained here. This package contains weapons, ammunition and personal and tactical equipment.
Latest F-16s delivered
The minister also mentioned that the last Dutch F-16s recently went to Ukraine. He expressed his gratitude to Denmark and the United States, the two partners in the Air Force Capability Coalition. This delivery has been made possible together.
“But the job is not done with that,” the minister noted. “Our work continues with the training of pilots, maintenance staff and other ground staff. We will also continue to support the Ukrainian Air Force when it comes to parts, infrastructure and ammunition.”