Description [EN]
The Nationaal Militair Museum (NMM) is one of the largest military museums in Europe. It is located in Soest, the Netherlands, and presents the history of the Dutch armed forces and their equipment. The museum was opened in 2014 and is the result of a merger between the Legermuseum (Army Museum) in Delft and the Militair Luchtvaart Museum (Military Aviation Museum) in Soesterberg. The building that houses the museum was specially constructed for this purpose and offers over 16,000 square meters of exhibition space for an extensive and impressive collection. The exhibition is arranged chronologically and shows the development of the Dutch armed forces from the 16th century to the present day. Highlights include historical uniforms, weapons, vehicles, and aircraft. Visitors can closely examine a variety of exhibits such as cannons, tanks, helicopters, and combat aircraft. The museum also offers interactive exhibition elements that allow visitors to experience what it is like to be a soldier. A particular highlight is the presentation of the Dutch participation in international peacekeeping missions, such as in Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Mali. Here, visitors can learn about the equipment and technology used for such deployments. In addition to the permanent exhibition, the Nationaal Militair Museum regularly hosts special exhibitions and events. This provides visitors with a comprehensive and varied program. Overall, the Nationaal Militair Museum is an impressive and informative institution that offers a deep insight into the history and present of the Dutch armed forces. With its modern presentation and numerous interactive elements, it is a popular attraction for everyone interested in military history.