The Netherlands becomes the first NATO state to integrate drones and anti-drone systems in all military units.

The Netherlands will become the first NATO member state to integrate drone capabilities and counter-drone measures into all combat units, according to statements from the Supreme Military Commander, Onno Eichelsheim. The Dutch armed forces will begin recruiting between 1,000 and 1,200 personnel starting in April, to complement the newly created drone units. This initiative marks an important structural change, considering the lessons learned from recent conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, where drones have played a crucial role in the conduct of military operations. Eichelsheim emphasized the importance of continuous modernization of systems, in a context where NATO members are intensifying commitments regarding defense spending, aiming for a long-term target of 5% of GDP. This expansion of capabilities reflects the need to adapt to the new realities of modern warfare.