The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) is set to take a next step in the transition from the F-16 to the F-35. On 1 June 2024, the advanced fighter aircraft will fully take over the nuclear role of the Netherlands within NATO from the F-16.
The Netherlands is one of the NATO Allies that contribute Dual-Capable Aircraft to NATO’s nuclear deterrence and is the first European country transitioning to the F-35 in that context. Netherlands Minister of Defence Kajsa Ollongren informed the Dutch House of Representatives today regarding the matter.