Tandem parachute jumps, an operational introduction to the C-390 transport aircraft and Sweden as a new participant were just some of a range of new developments on show during this year's Exercise Falcon Leap, an international airborne exercise.
Over the past 2 weeks, various NATO partners worked together on the ground and in the skies over the Netherlands and Belgium with the objective of improving their airborne capabilities, as well as mutual cooperation.
The exercise proved to be challenging. On Thursday, several paratroopers landed in trees outside of the planned drop zone. A service member from one of the participating units was evacuated with injuries. Falcon Leap concluded on Saturday with the annual commemoration of Operation Market Garden.
International cooperation with the F-35 put into practice
Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway recently demonstrated the real-world effectiveness of 'Capacity on Call' during the Weapons Instructor Course. Capacity on Call is an agreement that involves the exchange of F-35 assets, such as fighter aircraft, ammunition, and technical support, among cooperation partners. The outcome: more resilient and efficient air forces, more realistic training, and increased operational readiness. This type of cooperation reduces the reliance of the four nations on their own personnel and resources by allowing them to utilise the available F-35 capacity with greater collective flexibility.
State Opening of Parliament: more funding to fight, sustain, and innovate
The defence budget for 2027 has been set at €28.9 billion. This funding is required for armed forces that deter, fight, sustain and innovate. Of the total sum, approximately €14.8 billion is earmarked for defence personnel, military operations, and military support to Ukraine (over €3 billion). Around €14.1 billion is to be invested in new equipment, innovation, and real estate. Funding has also been allocated to logistics, ammunition and supplies. With these investments, the Netherlands is making a greater contribution to NATO, while also meeting the NATO spending target.