Queen Maxima of the Netherlands will soon begin her military service as a reservist in the kingdom's armed forces, sources in the Ministry of Defense (MoD) said, RTL Nieuws television reports.

Queen Maxima, 54, will take part in a military training program that will include both theoretical and physical training. She will learn to handle personal weapons, practice target shooting, master tactical training, and learn the basics of map navigation. The courses will be organized flexibly, taking into account her official schedule, but she will have to attend them on a regular basis.

The MoD hopes that the engagement of a member of the royal family in military service will stimulate increased interest in military careers and the reserve force among Dutch citizens.