Netherlands Partners with DeltaQuad to Supply Drones for Ukraine’s Defense Against Russia
The Dutch government has announced a significant partnership with DeltaQuad, a drone manufacturer based in Duivendrecht, to provide intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance drones to Ukraine amidst ongoing conflicts with Russia. This initiative aims to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities by equipping its warfighters with unarmed autonomous aerial systems for effective monitoring and data collection on battlefields.
The contract, valued at €42.6 million (approximately $46 million), marks a pivotal development in the "Drone Action Plan," a broader program designed to enhance military cooperation between the Dutch and Ukrainian Armed Forces. Announced earlier in October, this plan positions the Netherlands to invest around €400 million ($432.5 million) in jointly producing unmanned systems, thereby modernizing military assets while promoting economic growth in both nations.
Netherlands Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Ukraine needs advanced drones that can be delivered in the short term. It is good that the Dutch industry can contribute to this." He added that this collaboration with DeltaQuad would further develop the drone ecosystem within the Netherlands.
DeltaQuad CEO Sander Smeets echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the company’s drones are designed to perform optimally in challenging conditions. "This is an important step in the development of the drone ecosystem, where international innovation and rapid cooperation between military, policymakers, and the national industry are crucial," Smeets remarked.
The drones being supplied are noted for their advanced features, including the ability to operate efficiently under jamming attacks and maintain functionality even when disconnected from command and control signals. DeltaQuad’s Evo drone, a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) model, can cover distances of up to 246 kilometers (153 miles), carry payloads of around 3 kilograms (6.6 pounds), and sustain flights lasting up to four hours. It is equipped with an 80-kilometer (50-mile) automatic tracker and a 40-kilometer (25-mile) sector antenna, providing enhanced capabilities for long-range missions.
With this alliance, the Netherlands reinforces its commitment to supporting Ukraine during its ongoing defense against Russian aggression while simultaneously advancing its own military technology sector.
