A pilot-controlled directional control valve, in particular a directional poppet valve, has a valve housing (10), at least three fluid connection points (12, 14, 16), a main control stage (18) and a pilot control stage. A further fluid-controlling intermediate stage (22) is arranged between the main control stage (18) and the pilot control stage (20). The main control stage (18) has a longitudinally movable main control piston (24). The pilot control stage has a longitudinally movable pilot control piston (26).