As announced by the Government Information Service (RVD), Queen Máxima of the Netherlands began her training for the reservist Dutch army yesterday.
The Dutch sovereign started her journey towards becoming a lieutenant colonel this past Wednesday, and she’s not messing around.
Her eye-catching first day consisted of climbing scaffolding, shooting practice, and more.
It’s not every day you see the Queen holding a pistol.
What’s she up to?
While the Queen has regularly participated in military ceremonies and exercises for years, according to NOS, she took it to a new level this week.
Joining up just in time for the age cut-off of 55 years, 54-year-old Máxima is working hard in her training for the army reserves.
Her first day has resulted in some pretty hardcore photos:
As a part-time soldier in the reserves, Maxima will undergo both theoretical and practical training, reports RTL.
And these aren’t just skills she will sit on. During national emergencies, reservists are deployed alongside professional soldiers. In more serious conflicts, they can also assume these soldiers’ responsibilities.
But let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.
When (and why) did she enlist?
While it was officially announced earlier this week that she would be joining the reservist army, it doesn’t come as a shock.
The decision makes perfect sense in light of the recent royal support of the Dutch military.
Besides, she’s hardly the first Dutch sovereign to surprise us with her skills:
Máxima’s recruitment comes in close step with that of her daughter, Crown Princess Amalia, who has been promoted to corporal this past month, as announced by the RVD.
READ MORE | Queen Máxima jumps out of plane over Breda (and yes, there’s a video)
Ultimately, the Dutch royal support for the military aligns with a broader European emphasis on security and defence in 2026.
Threats from US President Donald Trump and continued incursions by President Putin of Russia have put many EU leaders on edge.
Military spending is going to be prioritised in the incoming Dutch coalition, and it’s clear they have Queen Máxima’s support!
Ministry hopeful for more recruits
This public show of royal involvement in the military is likely to increase enlistment from others as well.
Speaking with NOS, historian and royal family expert Coks Donders says that “with the images released of Máxima climbing and shooting, there are people who think: I want this too.”
When Princess Amalia first enrolled, the Defensity College saw its student numbers double, according to NOS.
Nothing like a little royal PR to boost recruitment!
What do you think of Máxima’s decision? Let us know in the comments!
If she cares so much about her people, maybe she should restore the AA shelters, which are almost completely gone all across Netherlands.