Two test F-35s for the Netherlands

[TorwaK]

Netherland's Defense states that participation in the joint testing of the F-35 Lightning II with other partners is necessary to verify whether the device meets the requirements and can achieve a smooth introduction into service.

 

There will be a 10% down-payment for two F-35 aircraft in 2008. A final purchase decision for the two aircraft will be made in 2009. The aircraft should be delivered in 2011 and 2012 and testing will run between 2011 and 2013.

 

Parliament has been told that the projected program cost is now almost €5.67 billion, up from €5.5 billion.

 

The Netherlands is looking at acquiring up to 85 F-35A aircraft to replace their F-16s.

 

http://www.f-16.net/news_article2759.html

[VMFA117_Poko]

... Poland will probably change F-16 to F-35 when others will change F-35 for next gen multirole aircarft ...

[Pilotasso]

The F-16 has an infamous reputation in Netherlands. I think its their weather to blaim, but there wont be any difficulty swiching to this jet in the minds of the dutch. Even if it starts crashing for the same reasons some time later.