News item | 19-06-2025 | 18:52
The Dutch and Belgian Navy want to work more together in the maritime domain. This was recorded in writing today. That happened on board the Combat Support Ship Zr.Ms. Den Helder.
Both countries intend to improve the effectiveness of their maritime forces. They are also determined to continue to work against Russian aggression at sea and to support Ukraine in the defense.
Belgium and the Netherlands have long been partners in supporting international stability, peace and safety.
Power of maritime relationship
They not only work together via NATO, European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN). The success of the Admiraal Benelux also demonstrates the power of the maritime relationship between the two countries.
There are various examples of successful cooperation between the two countries. Consider the joint purchase of Anti Submarine Warfare (ASW) -Fregatten at Damen Shipyards. Another example is the joint purchase of mine hunters.
Wishes mapped
Belgium and the Netherlands have in mind to purchase more maritime equipment together and to coordinate them. There is also the desire to strengthen the technological and economic basis through cooperation with industry. This way the Belgian company FN Herstal can mean a lot. For example in the field of unmanned systems. In addition, Belgium has a large ammunition factory that the Netherlands can make more use, as the minister noted. Conversely, Belgium can bet on drones that are produced at VDL in the Netherlands.
In all cases, national interests, regulations and existing obligations are taken into account. And not unimportant is research and innovation. In that area, the Netherlands and Belgium strive for joint initiatives, including on technology.