Dutch Microchip Detects Drones Earlier, More Efficiently

After 10 years of work, a team of Dutch companies has cracked the code on detecting dangerous drones before they become threats.

Thales, NXP, Neways, and several smaller tech firms started collaborating in 2015 with a clear goal: find enemy drones faster and cheaper. Their new radio frequency chip does exactly that, spotting drones earlier and at greater distances while consuming less power than existing radar technology.

The breakthrough came from keeping everything local. Both development and production happened entirely in the Netherlands, a strategy that improves security of supply and supports the country's defense industry goals.

On Friday, the CEOs of Thales and Neways announced a 10-year partnership to keep advancing the technology. Gerben Edelijn from Thales and Hans Büthker from Neways plan to deploy the chips first on new minesweeper ships being acquired by Dutch and Belgian navies.

But the real excitement lies in what comes next. The companies hope to shrink the technology into even smaller radar systems, making drone detection possible in more locations and situations.

The Ripple Effect

This innovation ripples far beyond military applications. As drones become more common in everyday life, unauthorized ones pose growing risks to airports, government buildings, stadiums, and critical infrastructure. Earlier detection means more time to respond safely.

The project also strengthens Europe's position in defense technology at a crucial moment. Büthker emphasized that the Netherlands now has world-class companies, cutting-edge technology, and clear specialization in counterdrone systems.

However, he noted one challenge holding back even faster progress. European Union countries still operate separately instead of creating a unified defense market. Büthker advocates for better coordination, with each nation focusing on its strengths while sharing technology and customers.

The Netherlands has chosen counterdrone technology as a core specialty, creating a strong cluster of expertise. But without international customers buying these innovations, even the best technology risks fading away.

This collaboration shows what's possible when companies, governments, and researchers work together over the long term. A problem identified in 2015 now has a solution ready for real-world deployment in 2026.

The chip represents more than technical achievement. It demonstrates how patient investment in local innovation can position a small country as a global technology leader while creating security benefits that extend across borders.