Space as critical infrastructure

1 minute read

Not a luxury, but a necessity: the Dutch aerospace industry is pushing for a long-term aerospace agenda. A good initiative for further innovation and substantial investment to maintain and strengthen its competitive position.

Responsive collaborative small satellite constellations for dedicated applications

Aerospace technologies help solve many societal, scientific and economic challenges. Whether it concerns monitoring climate change, ensuring social safety or providing communication capabilities, the importance of aerospace technology is a tangible part of our daily lives. That is why a long-term aerospace agenda was handed over today at the Space Expo in Noordwijk to Micky Adriaansens, Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate.

With the launch of the long-term aerospace agenda, the Dutch Aerospace Industry emphasises the strategic importance of aerospace as a critical infrastructure for the Netherlands. The Netherlands have unique knowledge and a technological position to excel in this area by contributing to our national security through, among other things, dyke monitoring and climate measurements. According to the industry, which has pushed for the creation of this agenda, this is a good start but now it is important to follow through, take the next steps and invest in aerospace.

More information

The full news article can be found here on the website of SpaceNed.

The long-term aerospace agenda is a clear signal that the Netherlands is seriously committed to a thriving and safe aerospace industry. The time is ripe for strategic autonomy in aerospace.

Latest news

NLR corporate

16 October 2025

NLR launches its strategy plan for 2026 to 2029

Minister Karremans of Economic Affairs has approved NLR's new strategy. This strategy continues the current long-term themes, focusing on a safe society, strengthening the economy, and sustainability. National and international developments have led to a greater emphasis on safety and competitiveness in the new plan.

Sustainable aviation in the Netherlands
Sustainability and Environment

15 October 2025

NLR and DLR publish framework for assessing aviation’s environmental footprint

Presented at the EASN International Conference in Madrid, the two aerospace research centres NLR and DLR published a joint guidance for Life Cycle Assessment in the Air Transport System. This uncovers the fundamental gap between in-flight emissions and a comprehensive view of the environmental impact of flying.

Defence and Security

02 October 2025

NLR collaborates with Airbus on Caracal Helicopters

Royal NLR - Netherlands Aerospace Centre has signed a contract with Airbus Helicopters to innovate a preventive maintenance strategy supporting the new H225M Caracal helicopters purchased by the Dutch Ministry of Defence. The agreement is part of a broader Industrial Participation Agreement between the Commissariat for Military Production (CMP) of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Airbus Helicopters.