Dutch F-35 Fighters Conduct Training at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport During NATO Operation Avatar
Four Dutch F-35 Lightning II fighters operated from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport on January 27-28, marking the first military exercise at the Netherlands' largest civilian airport. This operation was part of NATO's Exercise Avatar, which assessed Schiphol's capacity to serve as an alternative military base during crises.
The F-35s arrived at noon, conducted aerial refueling missions, and returned to the airport for multiple sorties without disrupting civilian air traffic. Extensive coordination with civilian partners was necessary, and the exercise aimed to demonstrate Agile Combat Employment.
Deputy Defense Minister Gijs Tuinman highlighted the importance of dispersing operations to enhance operational security. The exercise indicates a shift in F-35 operational protocols, allowing military use of civilian infrastructure, which reflects evolving tactics in response to increased threats in Europe.
