NLR Portfolio: Innovations for Military Capabilities

For over a century, Royal NLR has been a dedicated and knowledge-based innovator. Proud of our royal predicate, we act as a strategic partner for the entire Netherlands Defence organisation.
We focus on timely capability development to bolster national security. We build operational flexibility directly into defence systems through sustainable solutions, ranging from alternative energy to unmanned vehicles. When rapidly evolving threats emerge, our ‘fast innovation lane’ quickly adapts civil technology for immediate military use. This forward-thinking approach extends to mobility as well. We are shaping the future of transport by integrating aviation with other networks and pioneering smaller, electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft.

Latest Downloads

Maintenance and Repair

26 October 2026

Booklet: Applying innovation in MRO

Whether your focus lies with aircraft maintenance or you are seeking innovative maintenance technologies to enhance availability or reduce costs, NLR can provide support. Alternatively, if you're looking to future-proof your aircraft MRO operations, we are here to help you every step of the way.

Construction and Manufacturing

18 September 2026

Booklet: Composites Research and Development

A key objective for more efficient and sustainable aircraft is to make lightweight, durable and affordable parts which are designed for ease of maintenance. To be allowed to use parts made of new materials like composite and metal additive printed components in an industry like aviation, all of the materials must be accompanied by the right certification. NLR takes care of the entire process, from calculation and design all the way through to manufacturing, repair and certification. NLR assesses material properties, develops structural concepts and manufacturing technologies, designs components and builds parts up to the level of full scale prototypes. Spanning the entire spectrum of product development is what makes NLR unique.

Sustainability and Environment

18 September 2026

Booklet: R&D More electric and hydrogen-electric powered aerospace

Hydrogen as a fuel is considered to be an important route towards future sustainable aviation. For aviation
applications, hydrogen presents several key advantages: it allows for the elimination of carbon emissions in
flight and along the entire life cycle. Its usage in fuel cells allows eliminating NOx and particles. When burnt
in a turbine engine, very low particle emissions can be expected, as well as reduced NOx emissions, provided that the combustion system is optimised. However, water vapour emissions need to be carefully managed.