defensie

Defensie is the system of national defense and the institutions responsible for safeguarding a state's security. It encompasses the armed forces, the defense policy apparatus, and the civil institutions involved in protection against security threats.

In the Netherlands, Defensie refers specifically to the Ministry of Defence (Ministerie van Defensie) and the armed forces: the Royal Netherlands Army, the Royal Netherlands Navy, the Royal Netherlands Air Force, and the Royal Marechaussee (military police and security). The ministry sets policy, oversees budget and procurement, coordinates training, and directs international operations, while the military commands execute operations on behalf of the state.

Core tasks include deterrence of aggression, defense of territorial integrity, crisis management, disaster response and humanitarian aid, and increasingly cyber defense and space capabilities. Defensie participates in international missions and NATO and EU partnerships, conducts training with allies, and supports civil authorities during emergencies. It also focuses on modernization and interoperability with allied forces to address evolving security challenges.

Historically, modern defense institutions emerged as states organized their armed forces, evolving into professional and volunteer-based structures in many countries. In the Netherlands, the defence establishment has moved away from general conscription toward a professional force with emphasis on international cooperation, rapid response, and adaptation to contemporary security needs.