Dutch Squadron Finalises F-16 Operations

The Royal Netherlands Air Force 322 squadron based at Leeuwarden air force base terminated its operations on the F-16 “Fighting Falcon” early July (2021). With the gradual ongoing new deliveries of its successor, the Lockheed Boeing F-35A “Lightning II”, it was time for the squadron to focus only on the embedding of the new jet in the unit.

- Peter ten Berg

After 42 years of F-16 operations from their northern located airbase, the command and crews had mixed emotions when saying goodbye to the jet, which is scheduled to leave the Dutch Air Force somewhere in 2024.

To commemorate the event at Leeuwarden, several aircraft received full-colour markings after being flown for many years in toned down, general liveries. The decision to have the aircraft in a simple, standard livery was a result of being involved in a number of international (NATO) operations throughout the years during which the aircraft rotated regularly between the different squadrons to secure the agreed-upon obligations of available aircraft.

Markings for the farewell event included the badges of 322 “Polly” squadron as well as 323 “Diana” squadron and the TCA unit (“Transitie en Conversie Afdeling” / Transition and Conversion Unit) all having historical roots at Leeuwarden Air Force Base. Eye-catcher for the event was a “Last flight F-16 Leeuwarden” single-seat F-16 with a brightly coloured tail.