Estonian Delegation Explores Dutch Drone Innovation
From 16 to 18 July 2025, a delegation from the Estonian defence technology sector visited the Netherlands for a three-day programme focused on collaboration, innovation and hands-on experience.
DeltaQuad was proud to assist in facilitating the visit. It gave us a great boost of energy to work together towards the next step in European cooperation in drone technology.
The visit was led by Kadri Pedas, Trade Attaché at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Tallinn, Marion van Puijenbroek and Bram Alkema of DeltaQuad. The delegation included leading companies, government representatives, and innovators. The programme covered Amsterdam, The Hague and Marknesse, each offering its own unique perspective on defence collaboration.
Innovation from Amsterdam to The Hague
The visit started with tech-focused meetings in Amsterdam, with stops at Avalor for AI discussions, DeltaQuad for drone demonstrations and NLR for insights into aerospace research.
Day two continued in The Hague, where the delegation took part in strategic sessions with defence networks supporting Ukraine, along with representatives from Dutch ministries. The roundtable discussions at Provincie Zuid-Holland and NIDV opened up direct conversations about innovation, production and working together across borders. The day wrapped up at the Estonian Embassy with drinks, snacks and good company, just what was needed after an inspiring and full-on day.
Field operations in Marknesse
On Friday, the group headed into the field for a hands-on session at NLR’s facility in Marknesse. With drone demonstrations and open conversations involving teams from Omidrones, Guard From Above and other Dutch experts (including us), the session offered great insight into hands-on capabilities and where future partnerships might grow.
Security First, collaboration as the outcome
Security was tight: MIVD approval was required for all foreign visitors. But the energy and enthusiasm for further cooperation were even stronger. Despite a few absences (NATO Innovation Fund, you were missed), the bilateral engagement between Estonia and the Netherlands stood out clearly.
From AI to field operations, formal diplomacy to informal meetups, this visit laid a solid foundation for future partnerships in European defence technology.