The proposal would make the Netherlands the European location for EOS’s activities in this field. The company intends, in principle, to conduct both development and production in the country.
The Ministry of Defence said the High Energy Laser had proved highly effective against drones. The system converts energy into a high-powered beam that can be directed against unmanned aircraft.
Unlike missile-based air defence, the laser does not rely on the availability or resupply of munitions for each engagement. The ministry said this could make it a more effective and cost-efficient option than kinetic systems in some circumstances.
The two parties will examine whether a production facility can be established in the Netherlands. The proposed site would be supported by a Dutch-led European supply chain.
The industrial plan links the development of a new counter-drone capability with domestic manufacturing and European sourcing. It would also give the Netherlands a central role in EOS’s planned expansion in Europe.
The Dutch government intends to acquire several systems if the technology is successfully matured into a complete military weapon. No planned quantity, programme value or delivery schedule was disclosed.
