Netherlands completes discrete formation of Ukraine Marines.

The Netherlands has discreetly completed a training program for 300 Ukrainian marines to support them in the conflict. This four-month effort provided amphibious lessons to the troops with the support of specialists from the Dutch Marine Corps. The training not only focused on amphibious exercises but also covered trench warfare and urban combat tactics.
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Ukrainian Marines during formation in Netherlands (Picture source: Dutch MoD)

Amsterdam reported that the project was facilitated in partnership with military trainers from Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In its announcement, the government specified that the mission was disclosed to the House of Representatives after its completion due to "potential security risks" for the parties involved.

This amphibious training was motivated by the presence of large rivers and long coastlines, but it was not a one-way learning experience. The Ukrainian marines were already experienced, and the armed forces present were able to benefit from a feedback exchange from a symmetric war, unknown to the current generation of soldiers. Thus, they brought back specific combat knowledge, which allowed the adaptation of training and changes in environments based on shared knowledge.

The Dutch government also emphasized the importance of training the Ukrainian armed forces and enhancing European defense capabilities broadly. The idea of the training is that the Ukrainian marines could soon apply the knowledge and expertise gained during the training in a combat situation.

Feedback on this exchange of knowledge is plentiful; military participants report that this exchange affects motivation on both sides, aiming to make the most of each learning opportunity, which demonstrates a willingness to share knowledge.

The Netherlands has launched multiple initiatives to support Ukraine since the attack by Russian forces two years ago. In May, the country selected industrial partners to supply parts and ammunition for Patriot air and missile defense systems that it will donate to Ukraine.

Last year, the government unveiled a fleet of F-16 Fighting Falcon jets ready to be sent to Kyiv if enemy forces continue to advance.

Simultaneously, the Dutch armed forces and a multinational military training consortium led by the British for Ukraine have completed preparations for more than 17,000 Ukrainian recruits.