The Traditiekamer Marineluchtvaartdienst (Tradition Chamber of the Royal Netherlands Naval Air Service) is a small but significant museum located at De Kooy Air Base in Den Helder, Netherlands. It is dedicated to preserving the history and traditions of the Marineluchtvaartdienst (MLD), the Royal Netherlands Naval Air Service, which has been an integral part of the Dutch military aviation since its formation in the early 20th century.

Traditiekamer Marineluchtvaartdienst (Tradition Chamber De Kooy)

Maritiem Vliegkamp De Kooy

Rijksweg 20

1786PT  Den Helder

Netherlands

Postal address:

Postbus 10.000

1780CA Den Helder

http://traditiekamermld.nl

info@traditiekamermld.nl

+31 223 658703 (only Wednesday morning, not on holidays)

Visitors contact:

Bureau OS&O, Maritiem Vliegkamp De Kooy

+31 6  22063574

Admission free

Gift shop

Aircraft collection

220/K 184/H 118/D 216/V KL116 278 235/K

Agusta-Bell AB204B Grumman CS-2A Tracker Hawker Sea Hawk FGA.6 Lockheed SP-2H Neptune Northrop KD2R remote controlled target drone Westland SH-14D Lynx Westland Wasp HAS.1

Overview of the Traditiekamer Marineluchtvaartdienst (Tradition Chamber De Kooy):

1. Focus on the History of the Royal Netherlands Naval Air Service:
   • The Traditiekamer focuses on the Marineluchtvaartdienst, which is the air branch of the Royal Netherlands Navy. The MLD has played an essential role in the defense and protection of the Netherlands and its interests, particularly in maritime operations, search and rescue missions, and during times of conflict.
   • The museum commemorates the MLD’s involvement in World War II, its post-war missions, and its ongoing contributions to the Dutch Armed Forces.
2. Exhibits and Collections:
   • The Tradition Chamber displays a collection of aviation memorabilia, including uniforms, photos, and documents that showcase the MLD’s history and significant milestones.
   • The collection includes model aircraft, flight gear, personal artifacts, and historical documents that reflect the daily life and activities of personnel within the Royal Netherlands Naval Air Service.
   • Among the aircraft represented in the museum’s collection are models of naval aviation planes and helicopters used by the MLD, such as the P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft and NH90-NFH helicopters.
3. Significance of De Kooy Air Base:
   • De Kooy Air Base, located near Den Helder, has been an important site for Dutch naval aviation since the early 20th century. It continues to serve as an operational base for the MLD and is home to several types of aircraft used by the Dutch Navy.
   • The Traditiekamer is housed at this historic location, offering visitors a chance to learn about the base’s role in naval aviation and the MLD’s evolution over the years.
4. Educational and Commemorative Role:
   • The museum is an educational space where visitors can learn about the history of Dutch naval aviation, the role of the MLD in various military operations, and the evolution of aircraft and aviation technology used by the service.
   • The Tradition Chamber also serves as a commemorative space, honoring the men and women who have served in the Royal Netherlands Naval Air Service throughout its history, particularly those who have lost their lives during missions or in service to the country.
5. Visitor Experience:
   • The Tradition Chamber is open to the public, offering guided tours for those interested in learning more about the Royal Netherlands Naval Air Service and the history of aviation within the Dutch Navy.
   • The museum is also of particular interest to military aviation enthusiasts, those with a family connection to the MLD, and people interested in the broader history of naval aviation in the Netherlands.
6. A Connection to the Modern-Day MLD:
   • In addition to preserving historical artifacts, the Tradition Chamber highlights the modern-day role of the Marineluchtvaartdienst and its ongoing contributions to Dutch defense operations. It underscores the service’s adaptation to new technologies and its current operations, ensuring the museum remains relevant to the contemporary military aviation scene.

Conclusion:

The Traditiekamer Marineluchtvaartdienst (Tradition Chamber De Kooy) is an important site for understanding the history of the Royal Netherlands Naval Air Service and the role of aviation in the Dutch military. With its collection of historical artifacts, models, and exhibitions, the museum provides valuable insights into the Marineluchtvaartdienst’s evolution, its significant contributions to military operations, and the dedication of those who have served in the service. For those interested in aviation history, military heritage, or the Dutch Navy, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the legacy and traditions of naval aviation in the Netherlands.

Photos Ruud Boot