Defense Minister after recent threat: 'Not the right means'
The European Defense Innovation Forum (EDIF) in The Hague brought together key European players.
Published on September 26, 2025
Our DATA+ expert, Elcke Vels, explores AI, cyber security, and Dutch innovation. Her "What if..." column imagines bold scenarios beyond the norm.
Europe is still insufficiently prepared for threats from Russia, says Minister of Defense Ruben Brekelmans, following the recent intrusion of drones into NATO territory. During the European Defense Innovation Forum (EDIF), he called for faster implementation of innovative technology in the defense sector. Many other important players from across Europe were present, including government bodies, knowledge institutions, and innovative entrepreneurs. Reporter Elcke Vels was there.
A close-knit network: that is the first impression one gets of the innovative defense sector upon entering the World Forum in The Hague. The room is abuzz with excitement; visitors are getting to know one another. Policymakers and entrepreneurs are exchanging ideas and experiences. On the right, several advanced drones are on display.
The event was opened by Saskia Bruines, alderwoman for Finance, Culture, and Economic Development in Scheveningen. She emphasized the Netherlands' strong position, especially in South Holland, in the field of defense innovation, with expertise in aerospace, radar, cybersecurity, and quantum technology.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense was present via video link and emphasized that high-tech systems are crucial to resisting the enemy. Brigadier General Peter Gielen underlined the importance of innovation in air and missile defense: “We need plug-and-play systems. We can develop these quickly if we invest sufficiently.”
Recent threats: ‘Insufficiently prepared’
Brekelmans kicked off his presentation with an urgent and topical subject. “In recent weeks, EU countries have experienced what it means when the Russian threat comes close. Fighter jets are entering NATO territory, and unknown drones are appearing around airports.”
This raises fundamental questions: do we have the right resources? “NATO uses F-35s to shoot down drones. We need more efficient ways to protect our airspace.”
According to Brekelmans, Europe can learn a lot from Ukraine. They are rapidly building up a defense industry with the latest technologies. We need to adopt that innovative power in the rest of Europe.
In other words, leading-edge technology must be integrated into defense at a faster pace. The Dutch industry, comprising approximately 900 defense-related companies, is capable of doing so, according to Brekelmans. Sensors, radar systems, satellites, robotics, drones, cyber, AI systems, aircraft, and space components: “We have the innovative power and ambition to further expand our role and take the lead in specialized high-tech systems.”
Interception drones from the Netherlands
Such technology, to which the minister refers, is currently being developed by many European startups, including those present in The Hague. The Ukrainian company STG Defence is not to be missed. They are standing at the entrance to the World Forum with a drone. The company develops advanced camouflage, for example, for drones, against thermal cameras, and night vision goggles.
Hope Industries from Delft gave a short presentation of their interception drone during the event. This drone has the ability to carry a payload and neutralize a threat directly in the air. They showed their latest prototype on screen. The aircraft has already taken off. Flight data confirms a speed of 300 km/h. The drone is currently under development.