The Netherlands Just Started a Naval Arms Race

The Netherlands Just Started a Naval Arms Race In September 2024, the Netherlands doubled its frigate order from 2 to 4 ships in a single announcement, part of a defense budget that's grown 182% in just 8 years. From €8.5 billion in 2017 to €24 billion in 2025, the Dutch have transformed from NATO's "frugal four" to the 7th highest per-capita defense spender in the alliance.