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US approves $110 Million equipment to support RNLAF F-16s

April 27, 2018 (by Lieven Dewitte) - The US State Department has approved a foreign military sales agreement worth approximately $110 million for the Dutch government to defense services and articles in support of its F-16 training unit based in Tucson, AZ.

RNlAF F-16BM #J-065 from 306 sqn assigned to the Arizona ANG’s 162nd FW at Tucson IAP lands on December 10th, 2010 using a drag chute. Chutes are typically employed by Dutch fighters as a safety feature for short field landings and adverse weather conditions. They can reduce the needed runway length by nearly 50 percent. [USAF photo by Maj. Gabe Johnson]

The Government of the Netherlands has requested to buy defense articles and services in support of continuation of a Continental United States (CONUS) based Royal Netherlands Air Force F-16 Formal Training Unit, to include up to 27 GBU-12 Inert Paveway IIs.

Also included are PGU-27 Inert training rounds, Impulse Cartridges, MJU-7/B Flares, RR-188 Chaff, BDU-33/B and BDU-50/B training munitions, fuel and air refueling support, airlift services, base operating support, facilities, publications and technical documentation, pilot training, personnel training and training equipment, weapon system and software support, US Government and contractor technical, engineering, and logistics personnel services, and other related elements of logistics and program support.

This potential sale will continue to improve the RNlAF ability to develop mission-ready and experienced pilots to support its F-16 aircraft inventory. The well-established pilot proficiency training program at Tucson Air National Guard Base will train pilots in F-16 operations, tactics, techniques, and procedures. This training will enhance the RNLAF's ability to continue contributions to Overseas Contingency Operations and to NATO air policing operations, as well as, to possible future coalitions operations.


Additional images:

RNlAF F-16BM #J-882 is ready to go after receiving a new coat of paint. The F-16 was in and out of the ANG Paint Facility in just a few weeks. This is the first international aircraft that was painted at the Sioux City, Iowa based facility. [USAF photo by MSgt. Vincent De Groot]
Related articles:
External link:
  • PDF ( Netherlands – F-16 Formal Training Unit at Tucson Air National Guard Base (ANGB), Arizona)

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