Defence Minister Brekelmans said: “The Netherlands is providing advanced capabilities for layered air defence. In this way we protect the logistical supply to Ukraine, defend NATO’s eastern flank, and also increase our own level of training.” He added: “It is one of the first times that we have deployed this combination of systems simultaneously. We are showing Russia that there is no point in attacking this hub. This strengthens the security of Poland, Ukraine, NATO and the Netherlands.”
The Dutch deployment integrates three air defence capabilities with NATO partners to create a layered protective system. These assets are intended to counter potential threats from ballistic missiles, cruise weapons, jets, helicopters and drones.
Several NATO allies rotate in securing the logistics centre, and Germany carried out the previous mission with part of the same air defence assets. NATO has not yet decided which nation will take over after June 2026.
NSATU coordinates and facilitates the training of Ukrainian personnel and manages the delivery of military support, and the Dutch air defence mission helps ensure that donated materiel reaches its destination safely. The deployment allows NSATU to conduct its logistical activities securely.
The Netherlands previously supported Polish airspace protection with its F-35 fighter aircraft. This detachment operated with Norwegian colleagues from 1 September to 1 December 2025 to deter Russia and protect equipment bound for Ukraine.
