“For the first time in 80 years, the Netherlands is facing an almost existential threat.” Netherlands Chief of Defence, General Onno Eichelsheim issued this warning last week before a gathering of defence attachés from more than 30 countries.
The diplomats were in The Hague for the annual Autumn Financial Review, aimed at informing them about developments within the Dutch armed forces. The review included more explanation on the 2026 Defence White Paper, which states how much the Netherlands invests in the armed forces.
Likely increase in Chinese cyber attacks
The number of Chinese cyber attacks via vulnerable edge devices is expected to increase substantially over the coming years, as foreseen by the Netherlands Defence Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD) and the Netherlands General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD).