The German invasion of the Netherlands began on 10 May 1940 as part of a wider offensive against Belgium, Luxembourg, and France. The Netherlands had declared neutrality at the outbreak of the Second World War, hoping—much as it had in 1914—that its position would be respected. German planning, however, treated Dutch territory as essential for securing the northern flank of the drive into Belgium and for gaining airfields close to Britain. The attack opened with coordinated airborne and ground operations designed to disable Dutch command structures and seize key bridges before organised resistance could form.
Airborne troops landed near The Hague, Rotterdam, and other strategic points, aiming to capture the Dutch government and force a rapid capitulation. Although these attempts failed—the government evacuated to London and Dutch forces counterattacked effectively—the airborne units succeeded in creating confusion and tying down defenders. Meanwhile, German armoured and infantry formations crossed the border at multiple points, advancing rapidly against outnumbered Dutch units equipped largely with First World War–era matériel. The Dutch defensive plan relied on water barriers and fortified lines, but German engineers and air support neutralised these positions with speed.

A group of Dutch soldiers posing for a photograph during mobilization. Dutch mobilisation in 1939 followed the German occupation of Czechoslovakia and rising tension across Europe. The government activated reserves, expanded border forces, and reinforced the Grebbe Line and Water Line positions. Despite broad call‑ups, the army faced shortages in armour, artillery, and modern aircraft. Training emphasised static defence, leaving units unevenly prepared for rapid, combined‑arms warfare. Mobilisation improved manpower readiness but could not compensate for structural limitations when Germany attacked in May 1940.