A so-called Terms of Reference (TOR) has been agreed. This growth document is primarily intended to initiate a dialogue on the exchange of information in the field of knowledge and technology. Both parties will be able to benefit from this.

The Netherlands has shown the Americans where it excels: in the field of intelligent systems, sensors, new materials, semiconductors, space travel and quantum technology. In recent days, the American delegation has already visited various companies and knowledge institutions that are active in these areas.

BITS

Shyu concluded her visit to the Netherlands in Brabant. Here she was updated on the technological opportunities that Brainport Eindhoven offers for defense purposes. The collaboration between the regional ecosystem and Defense was also discussed. This is done under the name BITS (Brainport Innovation and Technology for Security). This ecosystem is the blueprint for the further development of innovative ecosystems with Defense.

“For us, the collaboration with Defense via BITS is of great importance in order to be able to contribute to peace and security,” said Naomie Verstraeten, Chief Innovation & Technology at Brainport Development. “Ms Shyu’s visit emphasises the importance of the Netherlands focusing on specific technologies in which we are strong. By maintaining our strategic position in this area, we can connect with American value chains and developments. Consider, for example, the great importance of semiconductors in the defence industry or the use of photonic chips in optical communication.” Photonic chips use light instead of electrons to transfer information.

Technological advantage

Collaborating with NATO allies is important for the United States to ensure the technological advantage of the American armed forces. The Netherlands has a lot to offer in the field of technology and innovation. This is partly due to the close collaboration between Defence, the business community and various knowledge institutions.

There are also opportunities for Defence. For example, ambitions from the Defence Memorandum 2024 are being met. This states, among other things, that the armed forces are committed to further developing innovation and strategic cooperation. The visit therefore offered a unique opportunity to strengthen cooperation with the US in the field of Research & Technology (R&T).

State Secretary Tuinman: “In this way, Defence has access to knowledge that we cannot obtain with our own resources. The war in Ukraine shows that we must innovate and collaborate in order to be able to deliver and continue to deliver. The collaboration in the field of knowledge and technology is considered a good step in that direction. It is also great that Dutch industry can benefit from this. These companies can have their acquired knowledge tested internationally.”