Dutch Police Donate Armored Touareg Vehicles to Ukraine

The Netherlands has transferred 38 armored Volkswagen Touareg vehicles from its National Police fleet to Ukraine, marking another round of material support amid the ongoing conflict.

The handover ceremony took place on July 10 at the Du Moulinkazerne in Soesterberg.

The Ministry of Defence has repurposed the vehicles by removing police equipment, repainting them army green, and conducting a complete technical overhaul. The Touaregs, originally used by Dutch police in high-threat scenarios, are now set to serve as military assets in Ukraine.

“These vehicles are more than just transport,” said General Onno Eichelsheim during the handover. “They offer protection not just from above or below, but also on the flanks. Their speed and flexibility are vital in active conflict zones.”

Hanneke Ekelmans, part of the National Police Force leadership, emphasized the historical role of the Touaregs in domestic security operations. “They were deployed in high-risk situations—from government buildings and embassies to the NATO summit and even during the Apple Store hostage crisis. They served for over five hours as mobile fire cover for the intervention unit,” she said.

The donation is part of the Netherlands' ongoing military support for Ukraine and demonstrates the continued adaptation of civilian assets for defense needs.