OSLO/DOORN — Norway’s Kongsberg Gruppen has signed a contract with Oshkosh Defense Europe B.V. to supply PROTECTOR RS4 remote weapon stations equipped with PROTECTOR Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (CUAS) capabilities for the Royal Netherlands Armed Forces. The systems will be integrated onto Oshkosh Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs).
Mobile Counter-Drone Capability
The configuration will provide Dutch forces with a mobile system designed to detect, track, identify and engage unmanned aerial systems. Kongsberg’s PROTECTOR CUAS combines sensors, targeting data and effectors in a modular design that can be adapted to different operational requirements.
When combined with the PROTECTOR RS4, the system is designed to address both individual drones and more complex aerial threats. Kongsberg describes PROTECTOR CUAS as a scalable solution developed to counter the growing use of drones on the battlefield.
The PROTECTOR RS4 is already in service with 31 nations and allied forces, according to Kongsberg. The company says CUAS software and related capabilities can also be added to existing and future PROTECTOR stations. The system has previously been fielded in Ukraine and with the U.S. Marine Corps.
“This delivery will provide Dutch forces with a proven capability designed to enhance force protection and operational effectiveness against a wide range of aerial threats,” said Kjetil Reiten Myhra, Kongsberg’s executive vice president and president of its Defence Systems division.
JLTV Integration
Oshkosh said the JLTV’s open architecture allows new technologies to be integrated rapidly.
“The JLTV was designed as an open architecture platform to rapidly integrate best-in-class technologies like KONGSBERG's PROTECTOR CUAS,” said Pat Williams, chief programs officer at Oshkosh Defense. He added that the partnership combines the JLTV’s mobility and survivability with Kongsberg’s counter-UAS expertise.
The contract builds on existing cooperation between Kongsberg, Oshkosh Defense and the Netherlands. In 2025, the Dutch Ministry of Defence ordered 150 JLTVs for the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps under the Future Littoral All Terrain Mobility – Patrol Vehicle (FLATM-PV) programme. The vehicles are known in Dutch service as Kaaiman, or DXPV, with deliveries expected to begin in 2028.
A second, smaller order for additional vehicles was placed in January 2026, valued at $25 million to $30 million, and included training kits.
The value of the new Kongsberg counter-drone contract has not been disclosed. The companies said the agreement will strengthen Dutch capabilities against unmanned aerial threats and support broader NATO efforts to address evolving security challenges.
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