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The production for Defence at VDL in Born has officially started. It concerns unmanned vehicles for Milrem Robotics, batteries for military use for Tulip Tech, and drones for DeltaQuad. Minister Ruben Brekelmans signed the agreements with the 3 companies. Equipment and resources produced by VDL not only strengthen the Dutch armed forces but also those of Ukraine.
Typically, it takes years to kick-start defence production. With VDL, it happens much faster. Within a few months, the first production lines are operational. Defence rents 120,000 m² of halls and facilities at the South Limburg location for this purpose. Because many provisions and permits are already in place, production can start quickly.
The collaboration with VDL is structural and valid for at least 10 years. In the coming months, additional production lines will follow. With this project, Defence, companies, and regional partners are working together to enhance the safety of the Netherlands and Europe.
According to Minister Brekelmans, it is necessary to invest now. “To continue supporting Ukraine and to deter Russia, scaling up defence production is urgently needed. This involves both innovation and industrialisation, speed and scale. With VDL and other modern companies, we can achieve this as Defence. VDL is the new flagship of the Dutch defence industry and is now in full speed.”
President and CEO Willem van der Leegte of VDL Group: “At VDL Nedcar in Born, we have proven that we can combine large-scale production with technical precision, and scale up complex processes. We are now applying that experience, among other things, to Defence. If the need aligns with our competencies — or those of our partners — we are ready. With craftsmanship and sufficient space and availability of power, we contribute to scaling up a strong and innovative defence industry here in Limburg.”
The new production means greater independence for the Netherlands from foreign countries and more strategic autonomy. For Ukraine, it is crucial to continue the fight against Russian aggression. With modern vehicles, batteries, and drones, the armed forces can respond more quickly and effectively.
The start in Born is good news for Limburg, the Netherlands, Ukraine, and Europe. It creates jobs, strengthens the defense industry, and increases resilience.
Communications Director and spokesperson for VDL Groep
E: m.timmers@vdl.nl
Tel: +31 6 14767066
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