Royal Netherlands Air Force

The Netherlands Air Force, officially known as the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF), is the military aviation branch of the Netherlands Armed Forces. Established in 1913, it holds the distinction of being one of the oldest independent air forces in the world. Over the years, the RNLAF has evolved to become a highly capable and versatile force. Its primary mission is to protect Dutch airspace, contribute to NATO collective defense efforts, and support international peacekeeping operations. The RNLAF operates a wide range of aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles. Notable aircraft in its inventory include the F-16 Fighting Falcon, AH-64 Apache, CH-47 Chinook, and the recently acquired F-35 Lightning II. The RNLAF has a strong tradition of international cooperation, participating in numerous multinational exercises and peacekeeping missions worldwide. It plays a crucial role in preserving national security and promoting global peace and stability through its sustained operational readiness and commitment to excellence.

Key facts

Official Name	Royal Netherlands Air Force
Local Name	Koninklijke Luchtmacht
Country	🇳🇱 Netherlands
World rank	#62
Active aircrafts	136 (as of 2024)
Aircrafts on order	34
Roundel

Number of active aircrafts by type

Aircraft type	Active
Helicopters	64
Combat aircrafts	47
Training	21
Transport	4

Aircrafts most used by Netherlands air forces

Aircraft	Active	Type
F-16 Fighting Falcon	29	American multirole fighter, famed in late Cold War conflicts, renowned for performance in precision daytime strikes and defensive counter air operations.
F-35 Lightning II	26	American multirole stealth fighter, developed in the early 21st century, extensively deployed in global military operations.
AH-64 Apache	24	American attack helicopter, developed during the Cold War, most famous for significant deployments in Gulf War and Afghanistan conflict.
NH90	18	European multinational medium-sized military helicopter, known for deployment in various peace-keeping and combat missions since the 1990s.
PC-7 Turbo Trainer	13	Swiss-made turbo trainer, distinguished by service in over 30 air forces, dating back to the late 1970s.
H215M / AS532 Cougar	12	French utility helicopter, notable for search and rescue missions, extensively utilized in military and civilian sectors since the 1970s.
CH-47 Chinook	10	American tandem rotor helicopter, synonymous with heavy-lift operations, crucial in conflicts including Vietnam and Afghanistan.
C-130 Hercules	4	American military transport aircraft, known for significant roles in Vietnam War and Desert Storm, extensively used for various cargo missions.
C-390 Millennium	0	Brazilian military transport jet, invaluable for its role in logistical support, known for extensive service in the Brazilian Air Force.

Full inventory in 2024

Netherlands Defence Helicopter Command

Aircraft Type	Model	Active	Ordered
Helicopters	AH-64D
	NH90 (NFH)
	H215M/AS532
	CH-47F