The Netherlands will finance the production of hybrid vehicles for Ukraine, which will be manufactured by Rheinmetall.
The Dutch Ministry of Defense will finance the production of 20 Ermine (Hermelin) ground vehicles for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
This was announced by the German defense company Rheinmetall, which is the manufacturer through its subsidiary Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V.
As reported, the Dutch Minister of Defense signed a contract with Rheinmetall on June 24 during the NATO Industry Summit in The Hague to finance the production of 20 Ermine ground vehicles.
The ordered variants are manned/unmanned ground vehicles. The Armed Forces of Ukraine will receive these vehicles to bolster their ability to evacuate wounded personnel close to the front line. The vehicles are to be delivered in 2026.
It is noted that this national cooperation between industry and the Ministry of Defense will contribute to the further development of the knowledge and capabilities of the armed forces of the Netherlands and Ukraine.
The Ermine (Hermelin) family of small transport vehicles represents a new generation of mobility, combining tactical transport with a mobile power source. Ermine’s characteristics allow it to be an effective means of enhancing combat power.
“This contract is a first significant milestone for Ermine and, by supporting the Ukrainian armed forces, will also contribute to the development of the Dutch defense industry,” the statement added.
On June 24, the Netherlands announced a new military aid package for Ukraine totaling approximately €175 million.
The new aid package complements the previously announced €400 million in support for maritime security.
In addition, the Netherlands recently signed contracts with Ukrainian manufacturers to supply 600,000 drones worth €500 million.
