Netherlands Establishes New Patriot Unit, Anti-Drone Test Center

The Netherlands Defense on Monday established a new Patriot fire unit and a new test center to focus on anti-drone technologies.

Located at the Defense Ground-based Air Defense Command (DGLC) in Vredepeel, the Patriot unit marks a crucial enhancement against long-range threats. Termed the '12 air defense battery', it joins an existing battery to form defense against short and medium-range air threats.

The new unit, equipped to combat threats from helicopters, airplanes, and drones, will operate independently or jointly with existing defenses. However, operational readiness hinges on additional personnel recruitment, with approximately 200 positions yet to be filled. Moreover, preparations include the replacement of current missile systems to optimize defense readiness.

In parallel, the establishment of a new test center at Vredepeel will focus on anti-drone technologies, catering not only to DGLC but also welcoming various government partners and industry stakeholders.

Notably, the Netherlands recently collaborated with international partners to provide a Patriot system to Ukraine.