The fixed – wing UAS has already seen operational use in Ukraine, where ongoing software updates have expanded its capabilities without requiring major hardware modifications.
The Netherlands Ministry of Defence has contracted Danish defense tech company Sky – Watch A/S to supply its RQ – 35 Heidrun unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for company – level intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
Awarded through a competitive procurement by the ministry’s Materiel and IT Command, the deal includes system integration, training and fielding support, and long – term sustainment.
Deliveries will continue throughout 2026 and are backed by a seven – year technical support agreement.
According to Sky – Watch, the selection underscores the RQ – 35’s ability to support NATO missions with live intelligence, precise target tracking, and reliable performance in complex environments.
The company also highlighted the drone’s resilience in signal – denied conditions, secure communications, software – defined architecture, and European supply chain.
The fixed – wing UAS has already seen operational use in Ukraine, where ongoing software updates have expanded its capabilities without requiring major hardware modifications.
“This agreement confirms Sky – Watch’s ability to deliver and sustain mission – critical ISR capabilities in demanding operational environments,” SkyWatch A/S CEO Martin Schousboe said.
“Being selected through open competition against leading US and European suppliers reinforces our operational credibility and our ability to execute complex programs end – to – end.”
The RQ – 35 Heidrun
SkyWatch’s RQ – 35 weighs up to 3 kilograms (7 pounds), measures 1 meter (3 feet) long, and has a 3-meter (10-foot) wingspan.
It offers a 500 – gram (18 – ounce) payload capacity and could be fitted with an encrypted data link, an electro-optical and infrared camera with advanced zooming, and an autonomous navigation planning solution.
The platform can remain airborne for 180 minutes, reach speeds of 31 knots (57 kilometers / 36 miles per hour), and operate at ranges of up to 50 kilometers (31 miles).
- The Drone Front