News item | 19-06-2025 | 19:43
The Dutch track plays an important role in the defense of the NATO territory. That is why a robust rail network is essential. That emphasized the commander of the armed forces (CDS) General Onno Eichelsheim tonight during a meeting of Prorail In The Hague.
During the so -called railway drink with the theme ‘Military Mobility’, the role of the rail for international military use was central.
Politicians, companies from the rail sector and representatives of governments and knowledge institutions spoke about this.
Civil rail sector
Military and civilian interests on the track are inextricably linked. “As a logistics hub via the ports of Rotterdam, Vlissingen and Eemshaven, the Netherlands is essential for the rapid relocation of military equipment within Europe,” said Eichelsheim. This is already done regularly via the so -called Host Nation Support. “This makes the track an indispensable part of our national security and NATO obligations.”
According to the general, the armed forces also depends on a strong civil rail sector. Not only does the Dutch economy benefit from this, the Ministry of Defense also lifts with it. According to Eichelsheim, a good rail network also has a deterrent effect for opponents. “The enemy is already investigating what the weaknesses are to sabotage and disrupt.”
There are still some challenges for further strengthening the rail process. For example, there are shortages of technical staff in particular. In addition, the parties in the sector call for more room in terms of laws and regulations. This concerns, for example, the relaxation of strict nitrogen and ecological rules.
Transformation Ukraine
During his speech, the General also looked at the situation in Ukraine. There is more than 20,000 kilometers of tracking in the country. This has one of the largest national rail networks in the world. The train was given a different purpose after the start of the war. Trains went from means of transport for civilians to a drug that is also used militarily. For example for transport of military equipment and injured transport. “For Ukraine, the resilience of the rail network became a symbol for the resilience of the people.”
Better cooperation
Defense works with civil parties to strengthen mutual cooperation. The parties also look here at the use of injured trains in times of conflict. Furthermore, a speed adjustment was already made for defense trains at Hengelo, among other things. As a result, they can pass the place without having to keep the side track free. Military transport arrives in the east the day earlier. “And that really makes a difference when it comes to it.”