Newsroom

Filter

Stay up to date with the latest developments

Air Traffic Management

29 May 2026

Safer drone operations in increasingly congested airspace

Drone pilots can receive assistance when operating drones through a so-called detect-and-avoid system. This automated system advises the pilot how to manoeuvre in order to maintain sufficient distance from other drones. However, such systems do not always support the effective passing of another aircraft. Researchers at the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) developed a system that performs this task more effectively, as part of a European project.

Construction and Manufacturing

26 May 2026

NLR acquires larger ‘shaker’ for complete systems testing

The Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR) has commissioned a new vibration testing system (‘shaker’). The installation is used to test aircraft and satellite components for resistance to shocks and vibrations. With this new equipment, NLR can now also test complete systems. The vibration test system, a TIRA 59412 model, is one of the most powerful of its kind. The machine is large enough to test complete satellites weighing up to one tonne, with a maximum mounting surface of more than 1 x 1 metre.

Defence and Security

08 May 2026

NLR-Marknesse host of NATO exercise TIE26

From 12 to 22 May, NLR-Marknesse will serve as the host location for NATO’s annual exercise dedicated to improving drone counter-measures. During this event, military personnel, tech experts, and innovators from across the Alliance will gather in the Noordoostpolder for a counter-drone exercise.

Defence and Security

06 May 2026

NLR contributes to helicopter of the future

Several NATO member states are looking to commission the development of a new type of helicopter. This is intended to replace the current medium-lift helicopters in ten to fifteen years’ time. As part of one of the exploratory projects, led by the Italian company Leonardo, experts from NLR have conducted an in-depth analysis of the concept of a tiltrotor helicopter. The results of that research were presented this week at the Vertical Flight Society’s 82nd Annual Forum & Technology Display, a major trade conference in the United States.

Defence and Security

02 April 2026

Defence strengthens units with drone and counter‑drone capability

The Ministry of Defence is taking a major step forward in the further development of the Dutch armed forces by officially integrating drones and anti-drone capabilities into combat units. During Drone Day in Oirschot (NL), it became clear just how important Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) have become for modern military operations. This development is the result of intensive collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, research institutions and the Dutch drone industry.