Regulations to curb nitrogen-based pollution are putting the Netherlands’ military readiness and Nato commitments at risk, according to a confidential report seen by the Telegraaf.

The report, by research institute TNO, has been leaked just over a week before the Netherlands hosts a major Nato summit, during which increasing spending on defence is set to be a key issue.

The report states that recent court rulings have made it nearly impossible for the Dutch armed forces to expand or carry out essential activities at bases located near Natura 2000 protected areas.

Almost all military locations face obstacles, researchers found.

“Not being able to train and grow would be completely irresponsible,” said caretaker junior defence minister Gijs Tuinman (BBB). “We have no choice if we want to guarantee our security.”

The nitrogen restrictions follow a recent Council of State ruling that severely limits the ability to shift nitrogen allocations between projects, making it far more difficult to obtain permits for even routine defence activities.

The restrictions, the institute says, affect training, expansion, and the maintenance of equipment, with serious consequences for the readiness of the Dutch armed forces.

Although defence accounts for just 0.01% to 0.05% of national nitrogen emissions, the rules now apply uniformly, Tuinman said. “The permit system must be uncoupled. Permits are simply not being granted, even though our emissions are very low.”

TNO warns that the Netherlands now risks failing to meet new Nato spending and readiness targets. The caretaker government has recently pledged to increase defence spending to 3.5% of GDP and Tuinman has also outlined a package of measures to boost the number of military personnel.

“The current nitrogen policy limits both national and allied defence capability,” the report says. It describes finding a solution as an “operational necessity and a strategic and political priority.”

Tuinman supports a proposal by caretaker agriculture minister Femke Wiersma (BBB) to introduce a minimum threshold for nitrogen emissions. He also called for deregulation at European level to avoid further gridlock. “We cannot afford delays in permit decisions,” he told the paper. “We need to move forward now.”

Dutch News has contacted TNO for comment.