The so-called Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) for Benelux airspace is now back in Dutch hands. Two F-35s are on permanent standby for airspace surveillance in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. Belgium and the Netherlands will alternate this task for several months, with the Dutch fighter jets being responsible until June 19.
The two Air Force fighter planes can take off and intercept an aircraft within a few minutes. The Quick Reaction Alert emergency occurs when an aircraft enters Benelux airspace without first making radio contact.
The Dutch aircraft fly from Leeuwarden airbase. The Air Operations Control Station in Nieuw Milligen monitors the airspace day and night and controls the F-35 aircraft. If an aircraft is spotted entering the airspace without permission, the Air Combat Command deploys the QRA to intercept the aircraft.
