300 Dutch Soldiers, Two Patriot Systems Head to Poland for Ukraine Support

Starting December 1, the Netherlands will deploy 300 troops in Poland along with two Patriot systems for air and drone defense during the delivery of equipment to Ukraine.

The Gaze reports, referring to NOS.

“We are doing this to protect NATO's eastern flank, an important military hub for the defense of Ukraine, deterrence, and further deterrence of the Russians,” said Minister of Defence for the Netherlands, Ruben Brekelmans.

It is expected that the Netherlands, together with its partners, will provide multi-layered air defense aimed at protecting against ballistic and cruise missiles, fighter jets, helicopters, and drones, which is already functioning in this area thanks to the efforts of several countries. 

Their contribution will continue until at least the end of May and also includes significant assistance to Ukraine in the form of Patriot missile supplies.

Importantly, this operation is separate from the security guarantees for Ukraine that have been discussed in recent days as part of the peace talks. As The Gaze reported earlier, the leaders of the “coalition of the willing” agreed to hold talks with the United States in the near future on “reliable security guarantees” for Ukraine.

Brekelmans emphasizes that the Patriots are operating in Poland and that the deployment of 300 military personnel does not mean their presence in Ukraine, and are not being used to repel attacks on Ukrainian territory.

To deter Russia and protect equipment for Ukraine, the Netherlands will deploy F-35 fighter jets in Poland from September 1 to December 1, together with Norway. Despite the deployment of two Patriot systems, the country will remain protected by its own forces and NATO capabilities, Brekelmans said.

As previously covered by The Gaze, the Netherlands announced a new €400 million military aid package to Ukraine to strengthen maritime security, including more than a hundred ships and maritime drones.