The Netherlands joins the U.S. program to develop autonomous combat drones

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Netherlands joins US program to develop autonomous combat drones

Netherlands joins US program to develop autonomous combat drones (X @SecAFOfficial)

The Netherlands has become the first European country to officially join the United States Air Force Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, focused on developing autonomous combat drones known as “loyal wingmen.”

The agreement, signed in Washington by Dutch Secretary of State for Defense Gijs Tuinman, marks a milestone in military cooperation between the two countries and reinforces the Netherlands’ interest in investing in innovation and unmanned systems, in line with the new Defense Strategy for Industry and Innovation launched in 2025.

By joining the program, the Netherlands will have full access to all development phases of the CCA and will be able to tailor operational requirements to the European context. The partnership opens opportunities for Dutch companies and research institutes to participate in future joint initiatives, strengthening the country’s technological and industrial base. According to Tuinman, the goal is to enhance regional security and prepare the Royal Netherlands Air Force to operate F-35 fighters accompanied by autonomous drones capable of executing joint reconnaissance and attack missions.

In parallel, the Dutch Ministry of Defense signed an agreement with General Atomics to develop a new lightweight surveillance drone (SUAS), with production planned in both the United States and the Netherlands from 2026. The model, developed in partnership with Dutch company VDL Defentec, is expected to make its first flight in 2025 and will contribute to strengthening European defense and NATO capabilities.

Source: The Aviationist | Photo: X @SecAFOfficial | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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