General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) and the Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) have signed an agreement to develop defence capabilities starting with a small unmanned aircraft system (SUAS) designed to provide multi-role intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
“Together with GA we will be increasing innovative SUAS capabilities and advancing technical knowhow in the Netherlands. This project is an example of strategic trans-Atlantic collaboration that supports our defense and technological base as we contribute to the defense of Ukraine and NATO by creating a versatile European defense system and working with a strong U.S. partner," Minister for Arms Procurement and Personnel, Gijs Tuinman, stated.
The agreement was on signed on 16 October, with the partnership possessing plans to implement a business model that will enable the platform to scale up to high-volume production to meet demand.
“This contract is the first step in a strategic partnership with the Dutch MoD that will ultimately contribute to the defense of Ukraine and NATO by creating a versatile European defense system,” GA-ASI CEO, Linden Blue, commented.
As part of the first phase of the contract, the Dutch MOD will collaborate with GA-ASI to establish UAS manufacturing capability.
“We are excited having been selected by General Atomics and we are proud to support Dutch MOD to create, together with GA-ASI, this unique capability for the Netherlands making our country and our allies more resilient,” managing director of VDL Defentec, Paul Malcontent, said.
VDL Defentec has been selected by GA-ASI to provide contract manufacturing of the new SUAS. VDL Defentec is based in the Netherlands and specialises in the development, engineering, subcontracting and production of military and special-purpose vehicles and other platforms. GA-ASI will work closely with VDL and provide detailed knowledge about the design, manufacture, logistics, and support of the new SUAS.
The new aircraft is expected to fly before the end of this year with low-rate initial production expected to commence in 2026 in both the US and the Netherlands.