In a historic step toward modernizing its national defense, the Belgian Air Force has received its first three F-35A Lightning II fighters from Lockheed Martin. The advanced stealth jets will replace the nation’s aging F-16 fleet, marking Belgium’s transition into the era of fifth-generation air combat capability within NATO.
The aircraft completed an intercontinental delivery flight from the United States to Belgium, stopping in the Azores before reaching Florennes Air Base. Belgian and Lockheed Martin officials welcomed the fighters with a ceremony highlighting the country’s commitment to enhancing its defense readiness and technological strength.
Belgium’s total F-35A order now stands at 45 units, following an expansion of its original 2018 contract. A portion of the fleet—eight aircraft—will remain at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, where Belgian airmen and maintenance crews continue advanced operational and technical training.
Once fully fielded, 26 jets will be stationed across Florennes and Kleine-Brogel bases, with four assigned to NATO’s Quick Reaction Alert mission for European airspace defense. The F-35A fleet is expected to reach full operational capability by 2030, providing Belgium with enhanced surveillance, strike, and deterrence power. As the transition continues, several F-16s are being sent to Ukraine to aid Kyiv’s fight against Russian forces.
