Dutch contribution to Strategic Enablers for Europe

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Over the past eight decades, European military power has become increasingly dependent on countries outside the EU. Meanwhile, NATO standards have been raised and (most) European countries have grand plans. Weapon systems are being procured, investments in munitions, ICT and infrastructure are being made. But what about strategic assets?

'Strategic Enablers' include satellite capabilities, strategic transport, intelligence and EOV capabilities, protection against attacks with drones, ballistic missiles or from space and a fully-fledged European command structure. But technology to replace scarce resources and a European data cloud for Defence is also of strategic importance.


These are almost all resources, which no (European) country can afford on its own and for which we therefore need European cooperation. But in what way? And what role can the Netherlands and Dutch industry play in this? Or do we accept this dependence?

If Europe really wants to do something militarily, we should not only think about getting these resources. Independently developing, funding and building these 'Strategic Enablers' is necessary for our strategic autonomy.

We welcome Eurodefense Netherlands as a new partner to our symposium and are proud to open the symposium with the first"Wim van Eekelen lecture" by MEP Bart Groothuis (Renew-Europe / VVD). This lecture is named after former minister Van Eekelen, who was founder and chairman of Eurodefense Netherlands for many years.

The programme of the symposium will be fleshed out in the coming weeks.

Information on sponsorship opportunities or placing a stand can be found via this link.

Illustration: AI generated (© KIVI DV - JW/MW)