End-to-end support for Joint Fires and Unmanned operations. From strategic advice to hands-on training and independent assessment
Three pillars, one chain. The C·I·E framework moves from strategic advice through hard-skills training to human-factor evaluation, covering the full integration of new capability into the operational picture.
01// C
Bridging the gap between Industry and Defence. The defence industry innovates at a rapid pace, yet aligning technological capabilities with the end-user’s operational reality remains a challenge. NineLine acts as the missing link.
02// I
We define Instruction broadly to encompass both individual technical skills and collective tactical training. We do not use rigid, one-size-fits-all modules; instead, we provide tailor-made support to build genuine capability.
03// E
A successful operation relies as much on the human element as it does on tactics and technology. Our Evaluation pillar focuses on the team dynamics, communication, and leadership required to excel in high-pressure environments.
Bridging tactical reality and technological capability.
NineLine has evolved significantly in recent years. Starting as specialists in Air-to-Ground effects, we have grown into a central hub that connects industries and operational expertise. Where technological innovation and operational reality struggles to meet, NineLine bridges the gap.
As former JTAC Instructors and Evaluators, we serve both defence forces and the defence industry. We observe that technology companies often struggle to understand military end-users and complex operational environments. At the same time, organizations turn to us for expert advice on cutting-edge technological applications, system integration, and tactical readiness.
Thanks to our operational background, we do not just speak the language; we know what is required downrange. From process to product, from strategic advice to boots on the ground.
+40 Years of combined
JTAC Experience
Unmanned Aerial
Systems
Tactical data links
A high-impact team of four Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) with over 40 years of combined experience within the Dutch and Belgian Armed Forces.
Composed of veteran JTACs, senior Instructor-Evaluators, a former CO of the Joint JTAC School, Fire Support Officers, and advisors in Digital Fires and Public Safety, we translate battlefield reality into strategic advice, instruction, and technological solutions for Defence and the Defence Industry.
Beyond our military service, we also bring experience in the civil sector, spanning public safety, IT/ICT, and national critical infrastructure, ensuring alignment with industrial standards and processes.
SME · Close Air Support & Drones
Pieter is the CEO and co-founder of NineLine C.I.E. From 2013 until 2022, he served as a JTAC within an operational unit of the Belgian Defence, evolving from FST leader to Chief Joint Fires and JTAC-I/E. His career includes multiple deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, providing him with deep operational insight.
Since transitioning from active service in 2022, Pieter has broadened his scope significantly. He has developed specialized skills in consultancy towards the defence industry, with a specific focus on drone integration and training solutions. Pieter actively supports companies in navigating complex tender processes, bridging the gap between industrial offers and military requirements. He remains passionate about training, shifting focus from individual skills to coaching the complete chain of command.
SME · UAS & Public Safety
Marc is a co-founder of NineLine C.I.E. and served in the Airmobile Brigade from 2003 to 2022. As a qualified JTAC and JTAC-Instructor with deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Mali, he possesses deep operational roots.
Uniquely, Marc bridges the gap between military operations and civil security. He currently acts as a specialist advisor for the Safety Region and Fire Department, translating military-grade drone procedures into effective solutions for public safety. Furthermore, Marc remains deeply connected to the operational field as an active Reservist. In this capacity, he continues to support his former unit with training, coaching, and the integration of new concepts.
SME · Close Air Support & Air-Ground Integration
Vincent brings over a decade of operational experience from the Dutch Armed Forces, where he served within the Airmobile Brigade as a JTAC and Fire Support Team leader. He progressed into senior roles as JTAC Instructor/Evaluator and Airspace Manager, ultimately becoming the Commanding Officer of the Dutch-Belgian JTAC school. In these roles, he was responsible for training, evaluating, and supervising JTACs across multiple units, as well as managing complex airspace coordination.
Following his military career, Vincent transitioned into the civil aviation domain as a Compliance Coordinator Aviation, ensuring adherence to aviation regulations within an operational environment. This further strengthened his understanding of the interface between civil and military aviation. He later became part of a contract air support company, where he was responsible for the coordination and execution of complex flight operations and acted as the primary liaison between the company and Defence. In parallel, he served as a Sensor Operator, operating airborne camera systems during live training missions.
With his combined background in operations, training, and air-ground integration, Vincent specializes in Close Air Support procedures, operational coordination, and bridging the gap between military requirements and civilian aviation capabilities. His structured mindset and pragmatic approach enable him to translate complex operational needs into effective and reliable solutions.
SME · (Digital) Fires
Frans van Driel is currently a Business Developer for the Army Innovation Department at the Dutch Ministry of Defence. With 17 years of active duty within the Infantry, holding positions as Platoon Commander and JTAC-Instructor/Evaluator, he now drives TDL (Tactical Data Links) projects for the Army that turn existing concepts into operational advantages.
Frans works closely with the defence industry and international partners, translating battlefield needs into solutions. From being a user on the ground to becoming an innovator, he knows first-hand why reliable communications and TDL are vital for modern combat. His open, upbeat approach helps bridge the gap between soldiers and technology, ensuring the Land Forces stay ahead in a rapidly changing security landscape.
Four constants we hold ourselves to: the same standard we expect from any unit, exercise or industry partner we step in alongside.
From air-to-ground operations to complex tenders and procurement or projects, every detail counts. We advise, train, and manage with the exact same accuracy, discipline, and standard required downrange.
Independent advice and absolute confidentiality. We prioritize our clients’ operational and strategic interests through honest, objective evaluations, ensuring full integrity in every engagement.
We stay at the forefront of technological and tactical advances. As active reservists and veterans, we participate in military exercises, defense hackathons, and innovation initiatives to keep your capabilities ahead of the curve.
We don’t advise from behind a desk. We maintain our operational edge by regularly joining tests and units in the field, ensuring our guidance remains grounded in current battlefield realities, not just theory.
Over the years, NineLine has successfully collaborated and built bridges with key players in the Benelux. Together, we amplify our impact and expertise.
Serco
Defensie
Exmil
2 Civ
Advanced
Forces Group
Citymesh
Drone Racing
Team Belgium
National Drone
Team Netherlands
Ready to elevate your air-to-ground capabilities? Reach out and we’ll discuss how we can support your mission.
