The Netherlands has announced the procurement of Airbus Helicopters H225M Caracal rotorcraft for its special operations forces (SOF) and the Northrop Grumman Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) for its F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters. The acquisition of H225M helicopters aims to strengthen SOF capabilities for land and sea operations, while the purchase of AARGM-ER provides the Ministry of Defence with a deterrent and scarce capacity for anti-access/area denial operations. No specific contract values, delivery timelines, or quantities were disclosed in the announcement. 

Key points: 

1. The Netherlands is purchasing Airbus Helicopters H225M Caracal rotorcraft for its special operations forces, as part of the Ministry of Defence’s efforts to enhance SOF capabilities for land and sea operations.

2. The Northrop Grumman Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) is being acquired by the Dutch Ministry of Defence to provide a deterrent and address the shortage of anti-access/area denial ammunition in Europe.

3. The H225M deliveries are expected to begin in 2028 and will eventually replace the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s existing Airbus Helicopters AS532 Cougars.

4. No specific details regarding contract values, delivery timelines, or quantities were disclosed for the AARGM-ER purchase.

Read more at: https://defence-blog.com/the-netherlands-to-buy-14-caracal-helicopters/