Thales and the Netherlands Ministry of Defense (MoD) have announced a new strategic collaboration to add production, development and test capacity for advanced radar systems in Hengelo. The partnership includes the construction of a new test tower and a state-of-the-art near-field test site with an anechoic chamber, the expansion of complex PCB production and the availability of training facilities. This will enable Thales in the Netherlands to increase its antenna production by an additional 60 percent between 2025 and 2028. The agreement directly supports the Netherlands’ commitment to bolstering European defense capabilities.
As the OEM for a wide range of radar systems, Thales in the Netherlands has supported the operational readiness of the Dutch and international armed forces for more than 100 years. Due to rapid technological developments and the deteriorating global security situation, the MoD has identified an urgent need to increase the availability and scalability of critical radar capabilities to protect the Netherlands and Europe. The ministry acts in its role as shareholder and customer but also enables other countries to acquire radar systems from Thales under Dutch procurement contracts.
“By expanding our cooperation to the ramp-up of test and integration facilities, we’re ensuring that the Dutch armed forces accelerate in our task to contribute decisively to the protection of Europe,” comments Derk Boswijk, the Dutch Minister of Arms Procurement. “By investing in additional facilities, we ensure the autonomy, resilience and technical edge of the armed forces for years to come,” adds Otto de Bont, CEO of Thales in the Netherlands.
