Counter-UAS interceptor to be integrated with Dutch Navy warships by Destinus
NewsAugust 25, 2026
AMSTERDAM, Netherlands. Destinus won a contract from the Netherlands Ministry of Defence to develop and integrate its Hornet B2 kinetic counter-uncrewed aerial system (counter-UAS) interceptor with Royal Netherlands Navy warships, the company announced in a statement.
The Concept Development & Evaluation program, awarded by the ministry's Materiel and IT Command (COMMIT), includes delivery of Hornet B2 systems, integration aboard multiple naval vessels, and Integrated Logistics Support activities aimed at a possible initial operating capability, the statement reads. The program is scheduled to conclude in the second quarter of 2027.
Hornet B2 is stored in a sealed canister and uses a rocket booster for launch before deploying folding wings and transitioning to electric-powered flight, the company says.
The interceptor is designed to engage one-way attack systems using electro-optical and infrared sensors, with artificial intelligence (AI)-based processing supporting the terminal phase of an engagement, according to the statement. Engagement decisions remain under human control.
Royal Netherlands Navy operators will participate in the development effort to help define system requirements, ship integration, logistics, support, and operating procedures, Destinus says.
