Air defence, the Drone Line and F-16s: Ukraine and the Netherlands strengthen defence cooperation

Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Mykhailo Fedorov, discussed further strengthening defence cooperation with the Minister of Defence of the Netherlands, Ruben Brekelmans. 

“The Netherlands is our strategic partner in strengthening and scaling defence technologies. I expressed gratitude for the Netherlands’ systematic and consistent support of Ukraine across key areas,” Mykhailo Fedorov said. 

The parties discussed the Drone Line project, initiated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. 

“This initiative brings together leading UAV units that have proven highly effective on the battlefield. These units are already destroying every fourth target on the front line each month. The project was implemented with the active support of the Netherlands, which allocated around €800 million to the programme in 2025,” the Minister of Defence of Ukraine stated. 

The Ministers of Defence of both countries also discussed the following: 

Strengthening air defence 

Mykhailo Fedorov highlighted the Netherlands' role in the PURL initiative, which aims to provide Ukraine with critically important weapons. PAC-3 missiles and ammunition for F-16 fighter aircraft delivered under PURL packages are already protecting the skies against russian attacks, and Ukraine expects this support to continue this year. 

Drone development and production 

Another important area of cooperation is Build with Ukraine, an initiative that enables foreign defence companies to establish production facilities in Ukraine and rapidly supply the Defence Forces with modern solutions. Within the framework of the initiative, Ukraine is also launching the production of Ukrainian-made drones via a joint venture in the Netherlands. 

“Our priority is to minimise bureaucracy, rapidly launch production, and ensure a steady supply of drones to our warriors,” emphasised Mykhailo Fedorov. 

Strengthening aviation capabilities 

The parties agreed to exchange expertise between their teams to enhance the effective use of F-16s in both air defence and strike operations. Systemic changes are now being rolled out to elevate Ukrainian aviation to a new level. 

The parties also reviewed other areas of cooperation, including the localisation and acceleration of repairs for Robin radars, the supply of AIM air-to-air missiles, and the provision of RUTA cruise missiles.