General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has signed an agreement with the Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) to develop a small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) designed to provide multi-role Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
The agreement marks the first step in a broader effort to develop innovative defense technologies. The new sUAS will be a low-cost platform capable of hosting a range of operationally relevant payloads and mission capabilities.
The partnership envisions a business model that will allow for scalable, high-volume production to meet growing demand.
Linden Blue, GA-ASI CEO, commented, “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 is building on its established relationship with the Netherlands to develop an urgently needed capability that supports European defense.
As part of the first phase of the contract, the Dutch MoD will collaborate with GA-ASI to establish UAS manufacturing capability.
Gijs Tuinman, Minister for Arms Procurement and Personnel, added, “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.”
VDL Defentec has been selected by GA-ASI to provide contract manufacturing of the new sUAS. VDL Defentec is based in the Netherlands and specializes 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.
Paul Malcontent, Managing Director of VDL Defentec, said, “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.”
The new aircraft is expected to fly before the end of this year, with low-rate initial production anticipated to begin in 2026 in both the U.S. and the Netherlands.
