Dutch F-35s Perform Data Sharing First In Ramstein Flag Exercise
Lockheed Martin announced that the Royal Netherlands Air Force had performed a live classified data sharing procedure using its F-35As during NATO’s Ramstein Flag multinational air force exercise, the first time it has been done outside the United States.
The procedure saw a flight of RNLAF F-35As in a simulated anti-access area denial environment successfully detect, identify, and pass targeting data on multiple simulated “ground effectors” via their Multifunction Advanced Datalink. The data was passed through Skunk Works’ Open Systems Gateway into the RNLAF’s Keystone Command and Control environment, which then relayed the data to Royal Netherlands Army rocket artillery that used it to engage a target and confirm its “takedown”.
Lockheed says the entire process of detection to rocket artillery engagement happened “in a matter of minutes”, demonstrating the F-35’s ability to support “multi-domain integration” and proved the interoperability of F-35s operated by allied nations.
Running from March 31 to April 11, the 2025 edition of Ramstein Flag was the first time the Netherlands hosted the multinational exercise, with nearly 100 aircraft from 18 NATO countries participating. The exercise simulated an “Article 5 scenario” of NATO’s collective defense, with exercise scenarios conducted in the Netherlands’ North Sea aircraft training range.
“Ramstein Flag was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of collaboration between United States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA), and Skunk Works”, said RNLAF Air Commodore Bert ‘Vida’ de Smit. “We are thrilled with the results and look forward to continuing this work with our partners to drive innovation and advance our integrated battlespace capabilities.”
“The combined joint all-domain capabilities demonstrated at Ramstein Flag are a breakthrough in multi-domain operations, emphasizing the F-35’s ability to seamlessly integrate with our international partners’ C2 environments,” said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “This achievement is a testament to the strength of our partnerships with the RNLAF and USAFE-AFAFRICA. Lockheed Martin is accelerating delivery of novel MDO (multi-domain operation) capabilities that enhance the effectiveness of our allies’ F-35 fleets to ensure peace through allied strength.”