First Belgian F-35A Arrives at U.S. Air Base

9 December, 2024 The first Belgian fighter jet at the American Luke Air Base. December 2024. USA.

Photo: www.luke.af.mil The first Belgian F-35A Lightning II arrived at Luke Air Force Base in the United States, where Belgian pilots will undergo training. The U.S.

Air Force said that this milestone marks the beginning of Belgium's transition from the F-16 Fighting Falcon to the advanced F-35A, ushering in a new era for the Belgian Air Component. According to the U.S. Air Force, "the initial cadre of Belgian pilots is at Luke AFB to commence training."

Belgian pilots are also participating in the Simulator Subject Matter Expert course, preparing to establish their own academic training center back home. Over the next few months, more Belgian F-35As will arrive at Luke Air Force Base.

Pilot of the first Belgian fighter jet at Luke Air Force Base in the United States. December 2024. United States.

Photo credits: www.luke.af.mil

This will strengthen the base's role as a key training location for U.S. allies and partners. "The cooperation goes beyond training pilots, as both countries work together to improve operational readiness and strengthen NATO alliances," the U.S. Air Force stated.

The first arrival of F-35A combat aircraft to Belgium is scheduled for 2025. Belgium signed a contract for a total of 34 Lightning II fighter jets in October 2018.

The first Belgian fighter jet arrives at Luke Air Force Base in the United States. December 2024. United States.

Photo credits: www.luke.af.mil

The initial delivery schedule envisaged that they would be delivered in batches of 4 aircraft in 2023-2027 and 2030, and 5 in 2028-2029. The F-35A will replace the F-16 AM/BM fighter jets. The initial readiness of the new aircraft for combat use with the possibility of limited expeditionary operations is scheduled for mid-2027, and full readiness for the end of 2030.

F-16 fighter jet of the Belgian Air Force.

May 2024. Belgium. Photo credits: Office of the President of Ukraine

As soon as the F-35As ordered by Belgium begin to arrive in service with the country's Air Force, the Belgian government intends to start handing over the first F-16 fighters to Ukraine.

Belgium will provide 30 of its F-16 fighters to Ukraine as part of its military assistance until 2028.