Gov't forcing 6 companies, 4 farmers to move to expand Lelystad Airport for F-35 use

The Dutch government is forcing at least six businesses and four farmers to move so that it can expand Lelystad Airport for stationing F-35 fighter jets there. The Ministry of Defense has determined it needs to expand the airport by 240 hectares, and these business buildings and farmhouses are in the way.

The expansion will comprise 200 hectares for military infrastructure and 40 hectares for an extended runway, the Ministry of Defense said on Friday. The airport will expand towards the northwest and the south.

The Ministry has informed the owners of the farmhouses and the businesses that they will eventually need to move for this project. State Secretary Derk Boswijk of Defense said that he understands that this will have significant consequences for the people involved.

“Through the National Program for Defense Space, we are creating the necessary room for the growth of our defense capabilities. In a densely populated country, this has a major impact on society,” Boswijk said.

He said the Ministry carefully weighed military necessity and the interests of the locals in making its decisions. “We will provide the best possible support to the individuals, businesses, and organizations affected. After all, we can only build a strong defence if we also remain mindful of our surroundings."