Launch Defport: Towards Acceleration Innovation & Faster Production of Military Equipment

Acceleration in innovation & scaling and increasing the production of military equipment in the Netherlands. That is the main goal of the Defport project launched on 25 March. From now on, the Ministries of Defence and Economic Affairs will work together with industry, banks and knowledge institutions within this public-private platform. This close cooperation will ensure a strong Dutch defence industry and thus contribute to a strong armed forces. The signing took place at Robin Radar Systems' premisis, where CEO Sietse Hamminga shared his inspiring story, which illustrated the utility and necessity for a different approach and promising developments.

Defport starts as a partnership between the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Economic Affairs, the defence industry (NIDV), VNO-NCW, the high-tech sector (FME), Dutch Banking Association (NVB) and the knowledge institutions TNO, NLR and MARIN.

Raymond Knops, chairman NIDV: "The launch of Defport marks an important moment. The geopolitical threats require different solutions, a different way of collaboration to address the challenges of scaling and innovation. Now is the time for action and concrete results." 

Source and more info: NIDV