VDL in Born commences production of military equipment for the Ministry of Defence
Production for the Ministry of Defence at VDL in Born has officially commenced. Over the coming years, the factory in South Limburg will produce unmanned vehicles, military batteries and drones as part of a collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, Milrem Robotics, Tulip Tech and DeltaQuad. Minister Ruben Brekelmans signed the agreements with the three companies during a working visit to the site.
Quick start thanks to existing infrastructure
Whereas it normally takes years to start up defence production, VDL has managed to do so in record time. The first production lines will be operational within a few months. The Ministry of Defence is leasing 120,000 m² of halls and facilities from VDL in Born. Thanks to existing facilities and permits, production could start immediately. Many former VDL employees have also found new jobs.
Structural cooperation for the long term
The cooperation between the Ministry of Defence and VDL is structural and will last for at least ten years. Several more production lines will follow in the coming months. The project is an example of how government, businesses and regional partners are working together to build a safer future. ‘In order to continue to support Ukraine and deter Russia, it is necessary to scale up defence production. This involves innovation and industrialisation, speed and scale,’ said Minister Brekelmans. ‘With VDL and other modern companies, we can achieve this.’
Strengthening the economy and security
Production in Born increases the strategic autonomy of the Netherlands and Europe and strengthens the position of the Dutch defence industry. At the same time, it creates additional employment opportunities for the Limburg region and provides a boost to the technological manufacturing industry. The project demonstrates how innovation, cooperation and industrial strength contribute to both our security and our economy, core values that are also central to the Brainport region.