The Dutch government is developing a national database for drones in the Netherlands. Its phased implementation aims to make it easier to tackle unauthorised drone use while also encouraging the development of beneficial drone applications. The first practical trial will begin in the Port of Rotterdam before the end of this year.
Drones offer many opportunities and contribute to safety, accessibility and innovation. They can be used to inspect bridges and locks, transport blood and support emergency services at incidents. At the same time, it is important to prevent unauthorised drone use.
In 2025, several incidents involving unauthorised drones occurred within a relatively short period, including at military airbases and Eindhoven Airport. In response, the previous government established a task force to tackle this type of drone activity. There are currently no indications that the threat drones pose to national security has increased, but this could change in the future. Various measures have therefore been introduced over the past year. Establishing the national database is the next step.
Also read: Dutch navy buys and trials new reconnaissance drones
The database
Both private companies and government organisations play a role in keeping Dutch airspace safe. However, information about where drones are flying is currently fragmented, making it difficult to obtain a complete overview of drone traffic.
The national database will bring together data from private and public organisations to provide a more comprehensive picture and support action against unauthorised drone flights.
Detecting drones
Drones can be detected using various methods, including radio frequencies, sound, cameras and radar. During the practical trial in the port, companies and government organisations will gain experience with innovations in these technologies. They will also exchange information from their respective systems to build a complete picture of all drone activity in the port area.
Participants will also be able to gain experience with U-space services. U-space is the European air traffic management system for the safe integration of drones into airspace. It helps distinguish authorised drones from unauthorised ones.
Also read: VIDEO: NATO trials 3D printing of naval drones
Trial in the port
The Port of Rotterdam trial is the first step. The aim is to add other key areas to the database over the coming years: Schiphol Airport in 2027, the North Sea and its vital infrastructure in 2028, and other essential public and private facilities across the Netherlands towards 2030.
Drones are already used in the Port of Rotterdam for various purposes, including security patrols, transporting certain materials and products, infrastructure inspections and rapid first-response support at fires and other incidents.
National Expertise Centre and unlocking opportunities
Alongside the database, a National Expertise Centre has been established to provide support and advice to critical entities. It became operational in the third quarter of 2026.
The government is also developing a Strategic Agenda for Unmanned Aviation to further stimulate the drone sector. It will set out how the Netherlands can make better use of the opportunities drones offer and support the sector’s development. One of the planned initiatives is a National Drone Summit in the first half of 2027, bringing stakeholders together and strengthening cooperation.
Picture: AI generated image of a drone flying over the Port of Rotterdam.
Also read: Dutch navy presents future vision on drones
