The F-16 replaced the Lockheed F-104G Starfighter as standard air defence fighter, also a bunch of F-16s was modified to be able to use the Orpheus Recce-pod.
This version was designated as F-16A(R) and F-16B(R). With the upgrade to MLU standard al F-16s are identical and the Orpheus pod was replaced with the MARS pod.
During the eighties the Dutch government was looking for a replacement of the old Northrop NF-5 fighter-bomber and soon the decision was made and the F-16 was chosen to also replace the NF-5.
The task of the F-16 has changed from fighter and fighter-bomber to that of a multi-role aircraft.
Modifications.
Between august 1990 and the end of 1992 all F-16s already operational were fitted with a dragchute just like the Norwegian F-16s already had.
58 examples aircraft already in use were modified by DVMS of the RNLAF and 30 aircraft were modified by Fokker Woensdrecht.
The aircraft already ordered were also equipped with the chute during production.
A Lockheed-Martin F-16BM of 312 squadron based at AFB Volkel; photographed at the Open Day Dutch Air Force, June 2007 at airbase Volkel.
Note the combination of toned down and coloured markings on the tail.
A Lockheed-Martin F-16BM, J-270 of 313 squadron based at AFB Volkel, photographed at the Open Day Dutch Air Force, June 2007 at airbase Volkel.
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