Pieter Cobelens

Pieter Cobelens
Born June 14, 1953, Dordrecht | Retired Major General | Former Director MIVD | Media Personality

About Me

Pieter Cobelens is a retired Dutch Major General and former Director of the Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD). With a distinguished career as an air force officer, he played a key role as Director of Operations in the deployment of Dutch armed forces in Afghanistan and Iraq.

From 2006 to 2011, Pieter led the MIVD through a significant transformation, evolving it into a modern intelligence agency recognized internationally by its allied services. After his tenure at the MIVD, he shifted his focus to national cybersecurity, delivering lectures and providing expert consulting in this critical field.

As of 2024, Pieter is widely known for his regular appearances on television programs such as Vandaag Inside and De Oranjezomer/De Oranjezondag, where he discusses pressing global security issues, including the war in Ukraine and nuclear threats.

Professional Experience

Director, Military Intelligence and Security Service (MIVD)
2006 – 2011

Led the transformation of MIVD into a modern, internationally respected intelligence service.
Oversaw intelligence operations supporting national and allied security objectives.

Director of Operations, Royal Netherlands Air Force

Directed operational deployments of Dutch forces in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Air Force Officer

Served in various command and operational roles within the Royal Netherlands Air Force.

Post-Military Activities

Cybersecurity Lecturer and Consultant
Media Commentator on Security and Defense Issues (TV shows including Vandaag Inside, De Oranjezomer, De Oranjezondag)