The Royal Netherlands Air Force has deployed a detachment of F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets to Ämari Air Base, Estonia.
The Dutch aircraft are the first NATO jets to launch from the airfield following extensive runway renovations, which were completed with support from NATO and Luxembourg.
The deployment was celebrated with a ceremony attended by NATO and national representatives.
Speaking at the event and quoted in a press release, Lieutenant General Thorsten Poschwatta, Commander of NATO’s Combined Air Operations Centre in Germany, spoke of the importance of state-of-the-art infrastructure in ensuring NATO’s readiness:
“Very fittingly, the first NATO jets to use this newly renovated runway will be fifth-generation fighter aircraft. This is a clear demonstration of how Allies invest in cutting-edge technology and capability to stand up against current and future threats.”
The €18.5 million renovation project at Ämari Air Base underscores Estonia’s effort to sustain NATO’s deterrence and defence efforts along the Alliance’s eastern flank.
The upgraded runway enables the airfield to support advanced fifth-generation aircraft like the F-35, resuming 24/7 air policing operations.
Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur welcomed the Netherlands’ contribution:
“With the improved conditions at Ämari and a new runway, air policing can now return with F-35s — the most advanced fighter jets in the world. We are delighted to host the Netherlands as the next contributing country for NATO’s air policing mission at Ämari.”
This deployment follows a series of similar contributions by the Netherlands to NATO’s air defence. In 2023, Dutch F-35s supported NATO Air Policing from Malbork, Poland, showcasing their operational versatility.
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Think how big nato military is from all the countries
Their deployment started 1 December, and according to today’s statement of the Dutch MoD they have already flown two QRA missions, during which three Russian aircraft were intercepted.