Two mortar platoons have been re-established within the brigade: one in the 11th Infantry Battalion in Schaarsbergen and the other in the 13th Infantry Battalion in Assen. Their integration into the brigade structure provides vital fire support capabilities that were previously reliant solely on air assets, including AH-64 Apache helicopters.
For over a decade, the airmobile units operated without heavier weaponry, depending on aerial support for firepower. The return of mortar units marks a significant enhancement in their autonomous combat capabilities.
Both reactivated platoons are currently undergoing intensive training to ensure swift integration with other units within the brigade. The MO-120-RT mortars are capable of air transport, notably by CH-47 Chinook helicopters, supporting rapid deployment operations.
Looking ahead, the Netherlands plans to establish an Air Manoeuvre Task Force based on the 11th Airmobile Brigade by 2027. This mobile rapid response force will include over 600 troops supported by aircraft and helicopters, designed for immediate deployment in crisis or conflict zones.
Meanwhile, towed mortars in mechanised units of the Royal Netherlands Army are set to be replaced by self-propelled CV90 Mjölner 120mm systems. The Netherlands ordered 15 of these vehicles last year, with deliveries expected to be completed by 2028.
