The Netherlands has chosen German defense firm Hensoldt as its principal supplier to deliver upgraded electronic warfare capabilities, the Dutch defense ministry said on Thursday. The ministry framed the procurement as a response to a growing operational need, citing an uptick in drone incursions over military installations and critical infrastructure across Europe.
The systems selected are designed to interfere with or mislead hostile radio communications and to neutralize or frustrate adversary electronic systems. According to the ministry statement, those capabilities will be integrated onto Piranha 5 armored vehicles produced by General Dynamics European Land Systems, the Madrid-based subsidiary of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD).
Management of the core contract will be handled by Hensoldt’s Dutch branch. The ministry indicated that additional Dutch defense subcontractors will be named in the coming weeks, suggesting a broader domestic supply chain will take part in the program.
Officials also said the Netherlands intends to buy the systems in conjunction with other European countries. The announcement did not provide details on which partners will participate or the precise procurement timetable, reflecting that some aspects of the program remain to be defined.
Integration of the electronic warfare suite onto the Piranha 5 platform links the capability upgrade directly to an armored vehicle already in the Netherlands’ procurement plan. The selection of a European systems supplier and the plan for multinational purchasing were highlighted in the ministry’s brief.
As described by the ministry, the selected equipment focuses on radio-frequency countermeasures that can disrupt or deceive hostile communications and sensing systems. The ministry framed the purchase as part of broader efforts to bolster defenses against increasingly frequent unmanned aerial system incidents affecting bases and infrastructure.
The ministry’s statement positioned Hensoldt as lead contractor, with follow-on announcements on subcontractors expected soon. Beyond the immediate contract award, officials emphasized the intention to coordinate purchases with other European partners, though no further specifics were released.