Dutch Naval Aviation
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Dutch Naval Aviation (MLD) started in 1914, but developed slowly in the inter-war years. At this time, the emphasis was on seaplane operations in the Dutch East Indies where aircraft (Dornier Wal) enabled patrols of the large arhipelago. The recognised threat from Nazi Germany in the 1930s accelerated development of the air capability and purchase of new equipment.
The German invasion on May 10, 1940 rapidly overwhelmed Dutch resistance and the MLD aircraft were redeployed to France before the Dutch formally surrendered on 15 May. Shortly after, the MLD was ordered to Britain, where Dutch personnel formed No.320 squadron, RAF Coastal Command, in June 1940. A second squadron, No.321 squadron, was also formed but later merged with No 320. Other MLD personnel served on MAC ships as Fleet Air Arm 860 and 861 squadrons, flying Fairey Swordfish.
At this time, efforts were made to strengthen the MLD in the East Indies, but when the Japanese invaded, they withdrew to Australia. RAF 321 squadron was reformed in Ceylon with ex-NEI Catalinas.
The Royal Netherlands Military Flying School was established at Jackson Field, Mississippi, operating lend-lease aircraft, training all military aircrew for the Netherlands. The intention was to return to the Netherlands and to participate in the war against Japan. After liberation, the main MLD base was established at Valkenburg, with De Kooy as the overhaul and repair base.
The escort aircraft carrier HMS Nairana was obtained on a two year loan from the Royal Navy and renamed HNLMS Karel Doorman. In March 1948 a light fleet carrier, HMS Venerable (R63), was purchased from the Royal Navy to replace the loaned one, and also renamed Karel Doorman.
The main roles of the MLD were maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare and search and rescue. From 1953, with the creation of NATO, the MLD received substantial aid from the USA, including PV-2 Harpoon, P2V Neptune and TBF Avenger aircraft.
In the late 1960s, the aircraft carrier was replaced in the anti-submarine role by a squadron of Westland Wasp helicopters operated from anti-submarine frigates. These helicopters were replaced by Westland Lynxs and these will be replaced themselves by NH-90 helicopters.
