Netherlands to Supply Ermine Vehicles to Ukraine
The Netherlands has announced plans to provide Ukraine with a fleet of 20 Rheinmetall-made Ermine ground vehicles, both manned and unmanned. This initiative was formalized through a contract between the Dutch defense ministry and Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. during the NATO Industry Summit in The Hague, though the financial details of the agreement have not been disclosed. Scheduled for delivery in 2026, these vehicles are expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of Ukraine’s armed forces, particularly in casualty evacuation operations at the frontlines.
This collaboration underscores a broader commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defense efforts, with Dutch companies such as Demcon and Abiom Communication Systems also participating. Their involvement aims to support not only the local defense industry but also to strengthen Kyiv’s resilience in ongoing conflict situations. Rheinmetall has hailed this contract as a pivotal moment for the Ermine platform, emphasizing their gratitude for the trust placed in their innovative defense solutions.
Introducing the Ermine Vehicle
The Ermine vehicle, also referred to as “Hermelin,” represents a cutting-edge addition to the modern battlefield, designed to serve as a force multiplier. Its modular and lightweight hybrid platform merges tactical full-electric transport capabilities with a mobile energy source, known as a microgrid. The versatile vehicle family includes configurations like a 4×4 manned quad, 4×4 and 6×6 side-by-side buggies, along with an uncrewed variant, all sharing the same advanced diesel-electric hybrid drivetrain.
Thanks to its design, the Ermine can operate nearly silently, which is crucial for tactical operations. Depending on the specific model, the vehicle can carry up to one ton of payload and reach speeds of up to 90 kilometers per hour (56 miles per hour), enabling it to traverse over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) on a single charge. Moreover, it is compatible with cargo helicopters such as the CH-47 and CH-53, which can transport up to four Ermine vehicles at a time.
