On June 24, during the NATO summit held in The Hague, the Ministry of Defence of the Netherlands signed an agreement with Rheinmetall Defence Nederland BV to supply 20 Ermine tactical vehicles to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, reports Baltimore Chronicle with reference to the Rheinmetall press service.
The vehicles are expected to be delivered to the front in 2026. Their primary role will be the evacuation of wounded personnel from the front lines. Depending on the circumstances, the vehicles can operate autonomously or be manned by a driver.
Several other Dutch companies will also be involved in the production process. Among them are DEMCON defense & security systems BV and Abiom Communication Systems (ACS) BV. Their participation will not only enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities but also contribute to the development of the Netherlands’ own defense industry.
The Ermine represents a new generation of lightweight mobile platforms that combine tactical transportation with a mobile energy source. These vehicles are designed for logistics, reconnaissance, and evacuation missions.
The product line includes unmanned ground vehicles, buggies, and quad bikes, available in both 4×4 and 6×6 configurations. All models are powered by a diesel-electric hybrid system, providing up to one ton of payload capacity and a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers.
Additionally, up to four Ermine vehicles can be transported by military helicopters such as the CH-47 or CH-53. This is the first official order for the Ermine, and its implementation will not only support the Ukrainian Armed Forces but also stimulate the further growth of the Dutch defense sector, according to Rheinmetall.
Earlier we wrote that UK, Italy, and Japan join forces to build sixth-generation fighter jet.