Museum Vliegbasis Deelen

Museum Vliegbasis Deelen is an aviation museum located near Arnhem in the Netherlands. It is situated at the site of the former Deelen Airbase, which has a rich history dating back to the early days of aviation and is closely linked to both World War II and the post-war period of the Netherlands.

Museum Vliegbasis Deelen

Hoenderloseweg 10

6816 SW Arnhem

Netherlands

www.museumvlbdeelen.nl

+31 6 20901649

Saturday – Sunday 11:00 – 17:00

Admission

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Aircraft collection

Auster AOP3 NX537/G
NX537/G

P-172

LK545/5G-T

FAP 9378

MJ874

Auster AOP Mk.III

Republic F-84F Thunderstreak (tail)

Short Stirling IV (Hull section)

Sud Aviation SE3160 Alouette III

Supermarine Spitfire LF9 (front scetion)

Spitfire LF9 (416Sqn) RCAF, shotdown 29 September 1944
Auster AOP Mk.III is stored, will be on display occasionally

Overview of Museum Vliegbasis Deelen:

  1. Historical Significance:
    • The museum is located on the grounds of Deelen Airbase, which played an important role during World War II. The airbase was originally built by the Germans in the 1930s as part of their military expansion and was later used by the Royal Netherlands Air Force (KLM) after the war.
    • During World War II, Deelen Airbase became a key location for the Luftwaffe, the German Air Force. It was also involved in the Battle of Arnhem (part of the larger Operation Market Garden), a significant conflict in 1944. After the war, the airbase was used by NATO forces, and its history spans the development of aviation from World War II to the Cold War.
  2. Museum Exhibits:
    • The Museum Vliegbasis Deelen showcases a variety of aviation-related artifacts, including aircraft, aviation equipment, and historical displays. It focuses on the role of Deelen Airbase during World War II, the Cold War, and its significance to the Dutch military aviation history.
    • The museum houses several military aircraft, including jets and fighter planes that were used during the post-WWII era. It also features photographs, documents, and uniforms from the period, allowing visitors to explore the military history of the region and its airfield.
  3. World War II & Operation Market Garden:
    • The museum delves into the historical context of the Battle of Arnhem (part of Operation Market Garden), which was fought nearby. It educates visitors on the airbase’s strategic importance during this critical battle and the role played by various Allied forces, including British airborne troops and American forces.
    • A key element of the museum is its emphasis on the resilience and bravery of those involved in the battle for Arnhem and the larger Dutch resistance movement.
  4. Preservation and Restoration:
    • The Museum Vliegbasis Deelen is also involved in the restoration and preservation of historic aircraft, offering visitors the opportunity to see aircraft in varying stages of restoration. Volunteers and experts work on restoring some of the planes to keep them in display-worthy condition, and the museum often holds events where restoration efforts are showcased.
  5. Events and Educational Programs:
    • Museum Vliegbasis Deelen frequently hosts educational programs, including guided tours for school groups, aviation enthusiasts, and history buffs. The museum also organizes special events such as airshows, commemorative ceremonies, and open days, often involving historic aircraft flyovers or displays.