Labour leader Job Cohen wants the government to wait at least four years before deciding whether to buy the Joint Strike Fighter developed by the United States.

Mr Cohen says a decision is not needed in the coming four years as the existing F-16s should last a long time. He was speaking at an election gala in Amsterdam.

The Labour leader says the funds necessary to acquire the expensive jets can be better used for other matters. It recently emerged that the production of the JSF is far behind schedule and way over budget.

Mr Cohen first wants to study what the need for the JSF is and which fighter jet can best replace the F-16.

The parliamentary elections will be held this coming Wednesday, 9 June.
 

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