Netherlands to increase F-35 order and double MQ-9 fleet
The RNLAF is now expected to operate a fleet of 52 F-35A fighter jets. (Photo: Netherlands Ministry of Defence)
Additional fighter jets and MALE UAVs are to be procured by the Netherlands.
The Netherlands MoD has committed to purchasing six additional Lockheed Martin F-35A fighter jets and four more General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) MQ-9 Reaper MALE UAVs, according to the country's latest Defence Paper.
The plan means a total of 52 F-35s are to be acquired overall (enough to equip three squadrons), while the MQ-9 fleet will double in size to eight aircraft.
'The entire F-35 fleet will be expanded to include modern long-range and precision weapons, enabling strategic targets such as integrated air defence systems to be seized [countered] in an increased threat environment,' according to a translated version of the Defence Paper.
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