As the first international project of this kind, the German-Dutch Wind tunnel (DNW) is under construction in the Noordoostpolder, The Netherlands. The DNW will be among the largest and most extensive complete low speed wind tunnels in Europe. This project is based on previous specifications and design work for two former national projects (now abandoned) which were similar in size and performance and mutually complementary in view of the tasks. The DNW will contribute to filling the gap still existing in the field of aeronautical test facilities in Europe for effective aircraft development work.

The DNW will consist of a closed circuit tunnel (total length of centre line: 318 m) with three interchangeable atmospheric test sections with cross-sectional sizes of 9.5m x 9.5 m, 8 m x 6m and 6 m x 6 m; the maximum speed is about 60, 110 and 145 m/s respec-tively. In addition, an open jet configuration will be available with special features for aero-acoustic tests. The single-stage speed-controlled fan of 12 m diameter has a nominal drive power of 12.7 MW. The standard equipment will include an air exchange system and a heat exchanger in the circuit, a model sting support, a six-component balance, and a distributed computer system for data acquisition/reduction and control purposes.