Deep Tech Defence Alliance (DTDA) officially launched
Opening 4 September 2025
The Deep Tech Defence Alliance (DTDA) is officially launched on 4 September 2025. Its goal: achieve a massive increase in defence exports and strengthen the Netherlands Defence Technological and Industrial Base (NLDTIB).
From lab to battlefield
DTDA unites the most innovative players in Dutch and European defence technology – from start-ups and scale-ups investing 20%+ of turnover in R&D to component manufacturers and production-innovation companies with single and dual-use products. Focus areas include AI, quantum, advanced materials, autonomous systems, sensors, weapons, ammunition and space. The ambition: shorter development cycles, faster adoption, and direct operational deployment.
Ecosystem-driven production
Near-shoring, adaptive production lines, and secure supply webs demand closer cooperation in the European home market. DTDA provides the network and leadership to make that collaboration concrete.
Policy alignment and leadership
The establishment of DTDA is fully aligned with the Defence Strategy for Industry and Innovation (D-SII 2025–2029), the STRAIIK-D Action Agenda, and the Action Plan for Production Security in Unmanned Systems (APOS). The National Technology Strategy (NTS) highlights the same strategic technology domains. At European level, DTDA links directly to the White Paper on European Defence Readiness 2030, where the Netherlands – during the Defence Council (RBZ) in Copenhagen, 29 August 2025 – positioned itself as (co-)Lead Nation for the Prioritised Capability Area “Drones and Counter-Drone Systems.”
DTDA explicitly takes responsibility for shaping the innovation landscape, building a culture of coordination and leadership across the North-West European ecosystem. By helping policymakers develop instruments that match fast-changing operational realities, DTDA pulls policy closer to practice.
From supplier to partner
DTDA looks forward to moving from supplier to strategic partner and, through the umbrella of NIDV, entering into public–private partnerships with the Ministry of Defence.
International connections
The model resonates with initiatives such as BRAVE1 in Ukraine, where battlefield-proven innovation is already shaping European security.
Charter members and opening
The official opening is hosted by AI Armaments, one of DTDA’s charter members – underlining that the alliance is about concrete capability, not just policy.
Open and widely supported
In recent months, leading deep-tech players have met bi-weekly to shape the alliance. DTDA is open to all private parties wishing to contribute to a resilient and innovative defence base
Further information: dtda.eu
Registration details
Legal name: Deep Tech Defence Alliance
Legal form: Association (Vereniging)
Chamber of Commerce (KvK): 97567361
D-U-N-S® Number: 473496314
IBAN: NL57 ADYB 1000 0510 78
