Dutch to Participate in Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) for F-35

While the parliament has placed conditions, including a meaningful competition with other fighters, with the Gripen N being the primary competitor, I see this as the nail in the coffin for the prospect of buying another fighter…at least until they find that the F-35 is 2.5x more expensive than promised.

They have made a 10% down payment (that likely will be closer to (3-5%) for two JSFs to use in IOT&E, and once that happens, I see the Dutch AF as committed.

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