Royal Netherlands Navy Frigate Engages Drones in NATO Exercise off Wales
In January 2026, the Royal Netherlands Navy frigate HNLMS Evertsen participated in NATO's Exercise Sharpshooter off the coast of Wales, successfully engaging simulated drone attacks and destroying five aerial and two surface drones. This exercise marked the first involvement of a non-British NATO warship, underscoring the growing significance of counter-drone capabilities in modern naval warfare amidst the increasing use of drones in conflicts. Western navies continue to balance traditional defenses with the exploration of advanced technologies to counter evolving threats.
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In January 2026, the Royal Netherlands Navy frigate HNLMS Evertsen participated in NATO's Exercise Sharpshooter off the coast of Wales, approximately 20 miles offshore in the Irish Sea. The frigate engaged simulated drone attacks using QinetiQ's Banshee Whirlwind aerial targets and Hammerhead uncrewed surface vessels.
Over several days, HNLMS Evertsen successfully destroyed five aerial and two surface drones. This exercise marked the first involvement of a non-British NATO warship in Sharpshooter, highlighting the increasing importance of counter-drone capabilities in modern naval warfare.
The exercise follows a trend of drone use in conflicts and the emergence of systems like China's Hurricane 3000, designed to disable drone swarms. Western navies still rely on traditional layered defenses while exploring advanced alternatives to address evolving threats.
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