Defence cooperation - United Kingdom
The close military cooperation between the United Kingdom and the Netherlands has many historical ties: many Dutch operational air, naval and army units were founded in the United Kingdom during World War II, and Dutch citizens have a deep respect and warm relationship with British War veterans. From day one, the cooperation remains undisputed.
Netherlands Defence organisation
The Netherlands Ministry of Defence comprises 7 organisational elements. The Central Staff makes Defence policy. The four armed forces Services ensure that military personnel and material are mission-ready. Joint Support Command and the Materiel and IT Command support the armed forces Services by providing products and services. The Minister of Defence is the head of the Defence organisation. Read more.
Cooperation between the Netherlands and the United Kingdom
The Netherlands and the United Kingdom have a longstanding and close defence partnership. As the Netherlands Armed Forces rarely operate alone, we rely on international cooperation for our security, with the UK as one of our most important partners.
From planning and executing missions together to jointly procuring, maintaining, and training with military equipment, our cooperation strengthens readiness and deterrence, increases efficiency, and helps both nations remain secure.
The Defence Department of the embassy represents and advances Dutch military-political and military-strategic interests in the UK. We analyse developments, strengthening our information position, in order to inform Dutch senior leadership, covering military-political, military-economic, strategic, operational and technical issues. We strive to deepen the cooperation by strengthening the bilateral defence relationship between the UK and the Netherlands, while also supporting joint efforts in wider multinational and NATO frameworks. Alongside close collaboration in NATO, the UK and the Netherlands work together in several key formats, including the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), the Northern Group, the United Kingdom/Netherlands Amphibious Force (UK/NL AF), Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC), and the European Air Group (EAG) at RAF High Wycombe.
Highlights
Operation Interflex
Launched in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Operation Interflex is a UK-led, multinational military training operation that plays a vital role in strengthening the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Together with international partners, the Netherlands has made meaningful contributions, ensuring the fight in Ukraine can be sustained by providing vital experience, training, and insight into frontline combat. Under UK leadership, this cooperation demonstrates a shared commitment to help Ukraine defend its sovereignty, pursue lasting peace, and safeguard European security. With multinational partners, this commitment shows the goal of putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position to achieve peace, safeguard its sovereignty, and protect Europe. More than 56,000 Ukrainians have been trained in Operation Interflex.
Commemoration
The Dutch Defence Department plays an active role in remembrance across the United Kingdom. Working closely with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), we organise the annual 4 May Dutch Remembrance Day ceremony at the Netherlands Field of Honour in Mill Hill Cemetery, North London. Each year on the 4th of May, the Netherlands honours all civilians and military personnel who have lost their lives in conflict.
Every September, we also host the annual commemorative flower ceremony, involving pupils from local schools around Mill Hill Cemetery – helping new generations connect with the shared history between our countries.
The Defence Department maintains close contact with Dutch military veterans throughout the UK. We have also worked with the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans to ensure that British WWII veterans who participated in military campaigns in the Netherlands receive the Thank You Liberators medal to recognise their vital contribution
Support
We support incoming (high-level) military visits and Dutch companies with their contacts in the security sector in the UK. Military personnel frequently conduct exercises and/or training in the UK. Furthermore, the Defence Department supports the 80 Dutch service members stationed throughout the UK.
Want to collaborate or learn more?
To learn more about the work of the Defence Department in London, please email us or visit Ministerie van Defensie.
Please use the contact form if you require any further information.