Member-only story
Netherlands Sends Ukraine a Lifeline With New I-HAWK Missile Systems
Just a quick update today, friends. If you’re a longtime reader of mine, then you know how fond I am of the HAWK missile defense system for Ukraine, despite its age. Now, we have big news out of the Netherlands.
On April 11, 2025, Dutch Minister of Defense Ruben Brekelmans announced that the Netherlands is committing €150 million to supply Ukraine with I-HAWK air defense systems. The pledge was made during the latest meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, a gathering of more than 50 nations now laser-focused on keeping Kyiv armed and standing.
And they could not have picked a better time.
Russia’s daily barrage of drones and missiles continues to hammer Ukrainian cities, energy infrastructure, and frontline logistics hubs. Ukraine’s urgent need for medium-range air defense, something that can knock out Shahed drones, cruise missiles, and even low-flying aircraft, is desperate. The I-HAWK fits that need perfectly.
This latest Dutch commitment is not just a one-off charity drive either.
Since Russia’s invasion began in 2022, the Netherlands has become one of Ukraine’s most reliable defense partners, committing close to €10 billion in military aid. They have already pledged 24 F-16 fighter jets, €400 million to co-develop…
