19 F-16s Expected To Be Cut From Fleet

The Netherlands has decided to cut its operational fleet of F-16 fighters from its current 87 to 68 aircraft, reports Flight International.

The government also indicated this week that it would defer a decision on purchasing replacement F-35 aircraft until after elections planned for 2015.

Three options are being considered for the 19 surplus F-16s: selling 18 and dismantling one for spare parts; selling 15 and retaining four for spares and training; or using all 19 as spares...