Dutch Air Force shows striking power at Volkel Air Base

On 8 December 2023, the very last Elephant Walk took place with Dutch F-16s at Volkel Air Base. 14 Vipers demonstrated the operational strength of the Royal Dutch Air Force during the transition to the successor to the F-16: the F-35.
The Elephant Walk is a term that came into use with the United States Army during World War II. The sight of a huge number of planes taxiing one after the other across the runway, taking off and flying away was reminiscent of elephants walking in formation. An Elephant Walk is used to display the capacity and strength and to optimize the cooperation of a squadron.
Today’s readiness
It stays important to monitor the readiness of the Dutch F-16s in their last operational year, especially with the war in Ukraine in mind. The aircraft that took part in the Elephant Walk flew a standard mission to the training areas above the North Sea and the Danish areas. To manage all of this, a team effort was required from all the 270 men and women who make up 312 Squadron.
Photo opportunities
A limited number of plane spotters had the opportunity to photograph the aircraft before and during departure, on the flight line of Volkel Air Base. The large line of Dutch Vipers offered great opportunities to shoot unique pictures before the F-16 retires after 55 years of operational service in 2024.