Dutch F-35s Train for Rapid Deployment in Estonia

Eight Dutch F-35 fighter jets conducted a training exercise on January 30 to improve rapid deployment capabilities from foreign bases, using Åmari Air Base in Estonia.

The drill focused on operational readiness, coordination with NATO allies, and logistical procedures for accommodating the aircraft in the Baltic region.

Since late 2024, the Royal Netherlands Air Force has stationed four F-35s in Estonia to monitor NATO’s eastern flank and deter Russian aircraft.  In December 2024, Dutch F-35s intercepted three Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea during NATO’s air policing mission. It was the first interception by the Dutch detachment in Estonia since deployment.

During the training, these jets were used to familiarize Estonian personnel with maintenance and refueling operations, as Estonia does not operate the F-35. An additional four F-35s from Leeuwarden Air Base in the Netherlands flew to Åmari for the exercise.

The training emphasized seamless cooperation between Dutch forces and NATO partners, ensuring readiness for potential deployment from foreign bases. If NATO airspace is threatened, such interoperability would enable rapid response alongside allied forces.