The Dutch army has established Task Force Drones to bolster the force’s capabilities in fighting with and against drones.
The task force will drive developments in the field of drones under the leadership of Brigadier General Joland Dubbeldam. The initial aim is to develop an integrated concept for the army this year. This will enable it to implement uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and counter-UAS within the units.
“The war in Ukraine is in the news almost daily. We see that drones and countermeasures have become indispensable in the modern battlefield,” Dubbeldam said. “That is why we have to take action and strengthen our combat power with drones.”
In addition to introducing new equipment, the conceptual aspect is at least as important according to the brigadier general. “How can we as the army fight as effectively as possible with the C-UAS and UAS resources in our toolbox? How are we going to prepare for that fight in the exercises organised by the army? And how do we ensure, together with the industry, that we continue to develop our systems?”
Task Force Drones is closely following developments in Ukraine. In addition, knowledge already acquired from units of the army is being collected and bundled. “Task Force Drones is not here to reinvent the wheel,” said Dubbeldam. “It is our job to quickly arrive at an integrated drone concept, with which we can fight smarter. Ultimately, it is all about implementing drone capacity within our units.”
For more information
Ministry of Defence – Netherlands
Image: Commander of the Land Forces, Lieutenant General Swillens (left) with Brigadier General Joland Dubbeldam the founding ceremony on April 3, 2025. (Dutch Ministry of Defence photo)
