323 squadron was the second, after the 322nd, to become operational within the RNlAF. This squadron also became operational in the FBA first, to add the CWI task on a later date. The FBA was lost after the TCA unit was integrated into the squadron.
With the disbandment of the TCA (Transitie en Conversie Afdeling) in 1986, the unit was integrated in the 323rd squadron from then onwards. This task was performed until the Dutch government decided to send a number of F-16s to the US to train the Dutch F-16 pilots. This happened in late 1989, early 1990. With the training task abandoned, the FBA task was taken up again.
The squadron was the first to enlist a female F-16 pilot. This was the first Dutch female F-16 pilot to become operation (Manja Blok). This happened in May of 1990.
RNlAF F-16A
block 10 #J-250 of 323 sqn returning from an ACM training mission. The aircraft is currently used as an instructional airframe. [Photo by Mike Kopack]
A major shift in the organization of the squadron took place in 1992. The name of the squadron was officially changed from '323 squadron' to '323 TACTESS'. This stands for 'Tactisch Training, Evaluatie en Standaardisatie Squadron', Tactical Training, Evaluation and Standardization Squadron. Next to its operational FBA and CWI tasks, the squadron was tasked with advanced combat training of all Dutch pilots. Therefore it organizes a number of high profile dissimilar air combat training sorties. The squadron therefore holds the majority of instructor pilots within the RNlAF and also the most skillful and experienced viper drivers within the force.
It currently continues to perform this training task today.
RNlAF F-16AM
#J-057 from 323 sqn is buzzing through the Afghan sky over Kabul IAP in January of 2006. [Photo by Joost de Raaf]
