In its annual defense memorandum, the government said the Netherlands would increase its defense budget by 2.4 billion. EUR, up to 24 billion euros.
“The Army will get tanks again, the Air Force will get additional F-35s, and the Navy can expect additional anti-submarine frigates,” the Defense Ministry noted.
The additional funds will mainly be used to strengthen combat power, but the ministry has claimed that it will spend an additional 260 million. euros for staff recruitment and training.
“Russia’s merciless aggression in Ukraine proves that an attack on the NATO alliance is no longer unthinkable,” said Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans.
By increasing spending on weapons, the Netherlands is taking a big step toward preventing such an attack, he said.
The NATO alliance obliges member countries to spend 2% on defense. gross domestic product (GDP).
According to the latest estimates of the Alliance, the Netherlands in 2024 2.05 percent will be allocated to defense. GDP.
“With this budget, the Cabinet ensures that the Netherlands meets the NATO standard,” the memorandum said.
The NATO alliance, which includes 32 member countries, will soon have a Dutch leader – on October 1. former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte will take the helm.
2024-09-05 23:08:28