Vliegbasis Deelen / Arnhem Deelen

Although the fields around Arnhem were used for flying Fliegrhorst Deelen (Deelen Air Base) as we know it was created by the German occupation forces in the 1940-1945 era. After WW2 the airbase was taken over by the Dutch Air Force. It was not before 1955 that the first helicopters arrived. 298 sqn accepted three Hiller H-23B Raven. In 1956 299 sqn received three H-23B's as well. In 1957 both squadrons relocated to Ypenburg Air Base due to the arrival of 306 sqn with RF-84F at Deelen. In 1962/63 both 298 and 299 sqn return to Deelen. In 1964 the Alouette III arrives and in 1965 the last H-23B has left active service. 1967 sees 298 sqn leave for Soesterberg making room for 300 sqn, that arrives at Deelen in 1968. Than 300 flies Alouette III helicopters. From 1976 299 sqn starts operating Bo-105 and transition to this type is concluded in 1979. After a reorganisation of the Air Force 299 sqn relocates to Gilze -Rijen and 300 sqn leaves for Soesterberg. Deelen is closed January 1st 1996.