The Dutch Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Robin Radar Systems in The Hague to purchase 51 mobile radar units designed to detect small drones and differentiate them from other objects, such as birds. The Defense Ministry plans to donate these systems to Ukraine later this year.
The 51 radars are expected to be delivered to Ukraine in phases, starting in the last quarter of 2024. These systems will play a crucial role in countering drone attacks from Russia.
These advanced radars can operate while mounted on moving platforms, a feature that enhances their effectiveness by making them harder to locate and neutralize.
The mobile radars continuously monitor their surroundings for drones, even while in motion. Their mobility makes them difficult for adversaries to detect and target, ensuring the ongoing detection and neutralization of enemy drones.
Previously, the Ministry of Defence acquired static radar systems from Robin Radar, which are currently in use at various locations. User feedback highlighted the need for a system capable of detecting drones while on the move, prompting further development that led to this new mobile functionality.
The Netherlands has been one of the key political and military supporters of Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. Through the coordinated efforts with Norway and Belgium, the country was the first one to pledge the supply Ukraine with F-16s, with the first planes arriving at the beginning of August.
Recently, Russia has introduced new drone technology utilizing drones guided by fiber optics. Ukrainian developers have reportedly been working on similar designs, after capturing a Russian prototype on the battlefield in March. German company HIGHCAT is set to demonstrate its HMX fiber-optic drone in Ukraine this month.
