New Dutch F-16 detachment in Libya

photo f-16.net

July 1, 2011 defpro.com

The Dutch F-16 detachment from Leeuwarden Air Base, also known as 1(NLD) Fixed Wing Element, that carried out operations over Libya during the last three months passed the baton on to the F-16 detachment from Volkel Air Base on Monday 27 June. This officially took place during a short change-of-command ceremony at Decimomannu Air Base on Sardinia.

The Netherlands has been contributing to Operation Unified Protector since the end of March. The operation aims to protect the civilian population, monitor compliance with the arms embargo and enforce the no-fly zone over Libya, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1973. The minehunter HNLMS Haarlem represents the Dutch maritime contribution to the operation, while the F-16 detachment from Leeuwarden Air Base was the first Dutch contribution to the air operation.

IMPROVISATION

The 105-man strong detachment left for Decimomannu Air Base on Sardinia at the end of March. "There were less than 20 hours between Parliament giving permission for participation in the operation and our departure” reflects Lieutenant Colonel Johan van Deventer, the commander of the unit ready to come home. Upon arrival at the Italian base, facilities for carrying out the operation were not yet available. "We had to pioneer and improvise." At the same time, the detachment started its daily flights. Van Deventer: "I am enormously proud that my people are leaving behind a well-run air operation."

FLIGHTS

The F-16 detachment also monitors the arms embargo. "We were effective", said Van Deventer, "because since we have been monitoring the no-fly zone, Gadaffi’s aircraft have not been airborne and the population has not been attacked from the air." In addition to monitoring Libyan airspace, the F-16 fighters have also been gathering intelligence. The sensors on board the fighter aircraft build up a ground and sea picture, allowing targeted checks on suspect vehicles and ships. In the past few months, the detachment carried out a total of 323 flights.

After a request was made by NATO, a decision was made on 10 June to extend the Dutch contribution to Operation Unified Protector by three months. The F-16 detachment from Volkel Air Base will now carry out air operations during the coming three months. The unit is under the command of Lieutenant Colonel André Steur.