The Netherlands faces a shortage of new commandos, with only fourteen recruits this year compared to the forty needed annually, according to the Ministry of Defence. Commander Huub Smeets told AD that this is “insufficient.” Deputy Defence Minister Gijs Tuinman, a former commando, also expressed concern about the low numbers, stating “We need double the amount.” In 2022, the corps gained 24 new members, and in 2023, 31.
This year, the tally stopped at fourteen. On average, fifteen commandos leave active duty each year.
Commander Smeets finds the situation worrying, emphasizing the global demand for operational personnel. Reducing training standards is not an option for both Smeets and Secretary Tuinman, as the standards are critical for mission safety and survival chances.
Jean Debie, head of the Union for Civil and Military Defense Personnel, suggests fewer operations if the numbers remain low. Smeets is hopeful that the shortage is temporary, as there are enough applicants for the coming year.
Source: NOS