The defence ministry and train operator NS are in talks to refit dozens of decommissioned rail carriages as mobile field hospitals in war zones.
The negotiations are said to be part of a wider package of measures that could also see train drivers hired to transport goods by rail to Ukraine and other eastern European nations.
NS confirmed to AD.nl that it was in talks with defence officials to supply 24 carriages which could be used to transport wounded soldiers from the front line.
“The defence department has contacted us and we are looking at opportunities to help them,” said a spokesman. “It’s something we’re always prepared to do.”
The negotiations are part of a wider plan to improve the Netherlands’ logistical capacity and make the armed forces combat ready. Nato members have also committed to raising their total defence spending to 5% of GDP over the next 10 years, including 1.5% on military-related infrastructure.
Last week KLM agreed to make pilots with a military training available as reservists to fly F-35 fighter jets or other aircraft alongside their regular duties. Eleven former F-35 pilots are currently working for the commercial airline.
The flag carrier also plans to allow maintenance technicians and ground staff to be called up by the air force.
Thank you for donating to DutchNews.nl.
We could not provide the Dutch News service, and keep it free of charge, without the generous support of our readers. Your donations allow us to report on issues you tell us matter, and provide you with a summary of the most important Dutch news each day.
Make a donation
