Netherlands explores possibility of buying aircraft in two batches, with number in second instalment to be decided
Development delays and a perceived lack of industrial return are prompting the Netherlands to consider buying only half the originally intended number of Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike Fighters.
The Dutch military’s original plans initially called for placing a single order for 85 aircraft, but this number may be split into batches, with the latter half to be decided later, says secretary of defence Cees van der Knaap.
The US-led Joint Programme Office (JPO) admits the shift in procurement thinking for the JSF programme’s third-largest financial partner, but remains hopeful of maintaining the full order eventually. “The Dutch are exploring the feasibility of purchasing their Joint Strike Fighters in two batches. For planning purposes the Dutch intend to procure as many as 85 jets once they have completed their downselect process,” the JPO says.
Meanwhile, the nine-nation JSF partnership is negotiating a new memorandum of understanding for the production, sustainment and follow-on development phase, spanning the next 30-40 years of the programme.
A second round of negotiations will be held in early December, with the goal to have a draft memorandum of understanding ready to be reviewed by partner countries starting in 2006. The partners are expected to sign a final document in December 2006.
Van der Knaap cites the JSF’s increasing purchase price as a primary area of concern. A two-year delay caused by a nagging weight-growth problem is also influencing the Netherlands’ procurement strategy.
Finally, rumours persist that Dutch industry is not benefiting enough from the government’s pledged $800 million investment during the 12-year system development and demonstration programme.
Stork chief executive Sjoerd Vollebregt, however, has urged the Dutch government to maintain its participation in the programme due to fears that pulling out of JSF will mean an end to the Dutch aviation industry.
The Dutch ministry of defence also has plans to follow the development of unmanned fighter aircraft, with the intention of possibly replacing all or part of JSF’s role.
Meanwhile, the economic effect of JSF on the Dutch industry is the focus of an interim report by Tilburg University. The initial analysis says the JSF generates 23,000 years of employment in Holland during development and production, and provides $1.1 billion in spin-offs for industry. A final report is due by May or June.
ANNO GRAVEMAKER/ARNHEM & STEPHEN TRIMBLE/WASHINGTON DC
Source: Flight International
