News item | 15-12-2023 | 14:08
The security situation in the world is rapidly deteriorating. More than ever, the armed forces must be able to defend Dutch territory and that of its allies. In preparation for this, more space is needed for Defense. This is mapped out through the National Space Program for Defense (NPRD). The House of Representatives was informed about this by letter today. Attached is a list of space needs that Defense is investigating in the coming months.
In addition to its defense task, the Netherlands must also fulfill other NATO obligations. All this requires a larger, better equipped and well-trained armed forces. There is a need to expand training areas, both on land, at sea and in the air. Defense also needs new or renovated real estate, better infrastructure and must obtain new permits. For the safety of the Netherlands and their own, soldiers must be able to practice jointly and differently with their (new) equipment.
More military activity in the Netherlands
Not all training can be done using simulators or abroad, where the armed forces already train a lot. The options outside the Netherlands are becoming increasingly limited because the armed forces of allies are also growing. This makes space for Defense in the Netherlands necessary, even though some activities cause nuisance to local residents.
Flying low
In order to gain support, Defense is going through a process with many opportunities for participation. It is the beginning of that describing the space needs in the so-called Scope and Level of Detail Memorandum (NRD). This piece is available for everyone to view from today.
Defense is investigating which location is best suited for 13 activities. Consider concentrating support units and places to practice. Other examples include more capacity for ammunition storage, space to station F35s and to be able to fly low and places to land helicopters.
Armed forces want to carry out additional activities at 31 defense locations. Citizens, civil society organizations, governments and other stakeholders can respond to the NRD that has been made available for inspection until February 12, 2024. This will be followed by research and informal discussions with stakeholders.
The new cabinet can then determine next year which activities have demonstrated usefulness and necessity and determine preferred locations. The national policy vision NPRD makes it clear what extra space Defense will have.
Separate page: space for defense
These choices will later be included in the Spatial Planning Memorandum. Because it is not only the Ministry of Defense that is stretched thin. More housing construction, adapting the energy supply, nature and agriculture also need space. This doesn’t all fit. That is why the new cabinet must make a decision about the distribution of the scarce space.
Click here for more information about the National Space Program for Defense.