The Flight Control System initiative marks an important step towards technological sovereignty within the Dutch aerospace sector for drone applications. As global supply-chain dependencies become increasingly complex, this collaboration ensures that critical flight-control technologies remain fully independent from non-European suppliers while meeting the highest standards of reliability and cybersecurity.
The partnership leverages NLR’s leadership in aerospace research alongside Neways’ advanced engineering and manufacturing capabilities. Together, the organisations will define the technical framework, validation strategy, and early prototyping approach for next-generation drone control systems serving both defence and civilian markets.
The collaboration also includes plans to establish a broader Dutch consortium involving companies, research institutes, and public organisations, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for drone technology development and production.
NLR CEO Tineke van der Veen emphasises the strategic importance of the initiative: “Our collaboration with Neways demonstrates how public-private partnerships can drive meaningful innovation in fundamental technologies. This Dutch Flight Control System project aligns perfectly with our mission to strengthen national aerospace capabilities of our Defence while advancing practical solutions for both defence and civilian applications. These technologies will ensure that the Netherlands maintains control over essential systems that protect our national interests.”
Hans Büthker, CEO of Neways comments: “This partnership with NLR represents exactly the kind of strategic collaboration needed to secure the Netherlands’ technological future through sovereign technology development. By combining our proven track record in mission-critical electronics with NLR’s world-class aerospace research capabilities, we’re creating solutions that will serve Dutch interests for decades to come.”
The Neways-NLR collaboration brings together complementary expertise across multiple domains. Neways contributes advanced electronic manufacturing capabilities, including specialised components for defence systems, embedded motor drives, and power electronics. NLR provides comprehensive aerospace research capabilities spanning aircraft operations, air-traffic management, defence and security, and platform technology.
Over the coming months, both organisations will focus on defining the technical specifications and validation protocols for the sovereign flight control system. Potential consortium partners will further strengthen the initiative by adding local expertise and manufacturing capabilities, thereby reducing dependency on international suppliers.
From left to right: Mark van Venrooij, Tineke van der Veen en Hans Büthker
