These are supply chain companies from the European Union.  DCDS – M met them to add European depth behind future coalition proposals, broadening the base of capable partners the coalition can draw on when it goes to the armed forces.  The aim was reinforcement, to widen and strengthen the supply chain with proven European partners, so that every future proposal rests on a deeper, more credible foundation.  DCDS – M weighed up where these companies fit and how they complement the local and Dutch strengths already in place. More partners mean stronger, more complete offers, and European depth adds both capability and credibility to the coalition’s hand.  This conversation extended the supply chain built earlier in the month, layering EU strength on top of the local and association groundwork already laid.  It moved the coalition closer to a supply chain rich enough to answer almost any requirement that comes its way, and it kept the momentum of building genuine, deliverable depth firmly on track.  Steady building, real substance.