Netherlands: Coalition of the Willing exercise begins in Poland
Amsterdam, November 9 (Hibya) - The Dutch Ministry of Defence announced the start of the Koalicja exercise involving 11 countries. During the exercise in Poland, approximately 2,800 military personnel are preparing for the deployment of a multinational force expected to operate in Ukraine after the war ends.
Starting today, the Netherlands is participating alongside 10 other countries in the multinational Koalicja exercise in Poland. The Dutch Ministry of Defence stated that the exercise represents an important stage in preparations for the Multinational Force for Ukraine (MNF-U).
The MNF-U, established within the framework of the Coalition of the Willing, is being prepared to support the Ukrainian armed forces after the war ends.
The Netherlands is participating with several hundred military personnel, with the largest contribution coming from its land forces. The Royal Netherlands Air Force is taking part with F-35 fighter jets and support personnel. Specialist support and headquarters staff have also been assigned.
The exercise, involving approximately 2,800 military personnel from 11 countries, focuses on scenarios for rapidly deploying a multinational force through Poland into Ukraine and conducting operations there. Activities cover the movement of personnel and military equipment, international command-and-control procedures, force protection and logistical resupply.
Poland, which is hosting the French- and British-led exercise, is providing a significant share of the logistical and medical support. Germany, Belgium, Spain, Lithuania, Estonia, Türkiye and Sweden are also among the participating countries.
The statement emphasized that ending the war is important for European stability and Dutch security. It noted that the exercise demonstrates the participating countries' collective readiness and ability to operate together. The Netherlands has been closely involved in military planning from the outset.
The ministry stressed that participation in the exercise does not mean Dutch troops will be deployed to Ukraine. Any potential Dutch participation in a post-war mission in Ukraine will depend on international and national political decision-making processes.
Usa News Agency