Netherlands taps Hensoldt for electronic warfare system upgrade

AMSTERDAM, June 11 (Reuters) - The Netherlands has signed German defence firm Hensoldt as its main supplier to upgrade its electronic warfare capabilities, the Dutch defence ministry said on Thursday.

• The systems the Netherlands is seeking are designed to disrupt or deceive enemy radio communications and counter hostile systems.

• These capabilities have taken on fresh urgency as Europe grapples with a surge in drone incursions over military bases and critical infrastructure.

• The systems will be mounted on Piranha 5 armoured vehicles provided by General Dynamics European Land Systems, a Madrid-based subsidiary of General Dynamics.

• While Hensoldt's Dutch branch will manage the main contract, additional Dutch defence subcontractors are expected to be named in the coming weeks, the statement said.

• The Netherlands is seeking to purchase the systems jointly with other European countries.

• No financial details of the deal were disclosed.

(Reporting by Leo Marchandon; Editing by Jan Harvey)