43 Mechanised Brigade | |||||
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![]() 43 Mechanised Brigade insignia | |||||
Active | July 1949–present | ||||
Country | ![]() | ||||
Branch | Royal Netherlands Army | ||||
Type | Mechanised Infantry | ||||
Size | 3,500 active personnel; 1,000 reservists | ||||
Garrison/HQ | Johannes Post Kazerne, Havelte | ||||
Colors | Red & Blue | ||||
Mascot(s) | Bison | ||||
Engagements | War in Afghanistan | ||||
Commanders | |||||
Current commander | Brigadier General Nico Boom | ||||
Insignia | |||||
NATO Map Symbol |
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43 Mechanised Brigade (Dutch : 43 Gemechaniseerde Brigade) is one of the three combat brigades of the Royal Netherlands Army, the others being the 13th Light Brigade and 11th Airmobile Brigade. The brigade has armored and non-armored vehicles at its disposal, and is tasked with conducting combat operations, peacekeeping and various ceremonial tasks. [1]
On 17 March 2016, the 43rd Mechanised Brigade was integrated into the 1st Panzer Division of the German Army. [2] At the same time, the German 414 Tank Battalion became subordinate to the 43rd Mechanised Brigade. [3] In this battalion one of the four companies is manned by Dutch personnel equipped with 18 German Leopard 2A6 main battle tanks. [4]
The Brigades Headquarters as well as most of the units are located at the Johannes Post Barracks in Havelte, in the province Drenthe.
As of March 2025 the 43 Mechanized Brigade consists the following units: [5]
Before the end of this decade, a second tank battalion with three Leopard 2A8 tank companies and combat service support elements will be raised. 11 Horse Artillery Battalion with two PzH2000 howitzer batteries and one PULS rocket artillery battery will join the brigade within the next few years, as well as additional medical and supply elements.