Four Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) F-35A Lightning II fighters have landed at Ämari Air Base, Estonia, to assume NATO’s air policing responsibilities along the alliance’s eastern border. This deployment will see between 90 and 150 Dutch personnel stationed in the Baltic nation, contributing to NATO’s ongoing efforts to maintain airspace security in the region. The mission includes continuous monitoring of NATO airspace over the Baltic States and maintaining a Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) capability. This allows two F-35s to scramble within minutes to intercept unidentified or non-compliant aircraft approaching NATO airspace.
This deployment underscores NATO’s rotational air policing efforts, with member nations regularly taking turns in safeguarding the airspace of eastern allies. The ongoing threat from Russia has amplified the importance of robust collective defense measures, particularly along NATO’s eastern flank. By deploying F-35 Lightning II fighters to Estonia, the Netherlands brings advanced military capabilities to bolster deterrence against potential aggression while reassuring Estonia and other regional allies. The deployment not only strengthens NATO’s defensive posture but also enhances the operational readiness and interoperability of Royal Netherlands Air Force with their international counterparts.
The Dutch contingent is supported by personnel from the National Datalink Management Cell, ensuring seamless communication and information sharing between F-35 pilots, allied units, and NATO command structures during operations. While the Royal Netherlands Air Force detachment remains under NATO operational control during the mission, the contribution underscores the Netherlands’ commitment to the alliance. This deployment reflects the critical role of multinational collaboration in ensuring the security and stability of NATO member states amid persistent regional tensions. As NATO continues to adapt to the evolving security landscape, the integration of advanced fifth-generation fighters like the F-35 is a key component of maintaining air superiority and readiness in the face of modern threats.
The Royal Netherlands Air Force was the second international partner to receive the F-35, and continues to serve as a key contributor to the production and sustainment of the F-35 Lightning II advanced fighter. The RNLAF is also the second air force with a 5th gen-only fighter fleet after the retirement of its F-16s. The Dutch are making plans to add to their F-35 fleet to increase the nation’s capability and capacity to engage in allied operations. On 27 December 2021 the Netherlands declared initial operational capability (IOC) for its fleet of 24 F-35As that it has received to date from its order for 46 F-35As. In 2022, the Netherlands announced they will order an additional six F-35s, totaling 52 aircraft ordered. 39 F-35As delivered and operational, of which 8 trainer aircraft based at Luke Air Force Base in the USA.
