Report and photo by Robin Polderman
Today, Thursday 6 March 2025, the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) took delivery of the first Tech-Refresh-3 F-35A, when aircraft F-041 (AN-41, 22-5839) touched down at Volkel airbase at 14:38 local time.
The arrival marked the official First Aircraft Arrival for the 312 squadron, and its appearance was celebrated with a small ceremony.
Further deliveries of TR-3 aircraft to 312 sqn are anticipated to follow shortly, after first flights of AN-42 (F-042), AN-43 (F-043) and AN-44 (F-044) from the Final Assembly & Check Out facility at Cameri, Italy, on 4, 5 and 6 March respectively.
Following problems with the TR-3 software, reported in depth by many aviation and non-aviation media outlets, deliveries of TR-3 aircraft to customers, including the RNLAF, have commenced. The TR-3 F-35s have received some hardware changes, making it possible for them to be upgraded to Block 4 in due time.
We can’t wait to see F-041 painted up in 312 squadron markings after the acceptance inspection has been carried out!