Celebrating the Arrival of Belgium's First F-35 Aircraft at Florennes Air Base

A Historic Moment for Belgium's Air Force

On October 14, 2025, Belgium witnessed a momentous event as its first F-35A Lightning II aircraft arrived at Florennes Air Base, officially marking its integration into the Belgian Air Force operations. The ceremony was attended by representatives from Lockheed Martin, the manufacturer of the F-35, highlighting the importance of this advanced fighter jet for Belgium's military capabilities and its role in NATO.

A Symbol of Strength and Cooperation

General Frederik Vansina, the Chief of Defence of the Belgian Armed Forces, articulated the significance of this milestone. He stated, "Together with our NATO and European allies, we're building a wall of F-35s — a shield of over 700 aircraft securing our European skies," emphasizing that this fleet represents not aggression, but a commitment to freedom and security across Europe.

The inclusion of the F-35 in Belgium’s air defense strategy marks a step forward in partnership with allied nations. Major General Geert De Decker, the Commander of the Belgian Air Force, echoed this sentiment, stating, "With the F-35, Belgium is reclaiming its place among the world's leading air forces, equipped with advanced technology and integrated within a multinational environment."

Greg Ulmer, president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, praised the F-35 as a critical asset for NATO's deterrence efforts, especially in light of recent tensions in Europe. He noted that this aircraft provides a significant advantage to all who operate it, thereby reinforcing partnerships and enhancing the collective security of allied forces.

Fulfilling Belgium's Defense Needs

As part of a broader program, Belgium has ordered a total of 34 F-35A aircraft, with 11 already delivered, including the one newly stationed at Florennes. Additionally, eight aircraft are currently at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, serving as training grounds for Belgian pilots and maintenance crews. The Belgian government has also expressed interest in acquiring 11 more F-35s, bringing the total to 45, which underscores its commitment to modernizing its air fleet.

The F-35 program has gained immense popularity among allied nations. With over 1,245 jets operational worldwide and more than one million flight hours logged, the F-35's combat-tested capabilities have made it the preferred choice for air forces across the globe. The integration of these aircraft not only boosts Belgium's defense posture but also contributes to a robust network of allied military capabilities, ensuring readiness against future challenges.

A Forward-Thinking Approach

In a landscape where adversaries are continuously evolving, the importance of advanced aircraft like the F-35 cannot be overstated. It represents a crucial element in maintaining air dominance, especially as older aircraft begin to age. This new addition to Belgium's arsenal ensures that it remains at the forefront of technological advancements in military aviation.

Lockheed Martin, a global leader in defense technology, is committed to driving innovation and enhancing the capabilities of allied forces. The integration of the F-35 into Belgium’s air force symbolizes a significant step in strengthening both national security and the defense industrial base, affirming a steadfast partnership that has lasted over 70 years.

Conclusion

The arrival of the F-35A Lightning II aircraft in Belgium not only boosts the operational capabilities of the Belgian Air Force but also signifies a broader commitment to collective security and defense collaboration within NATO. As Belgium continues to modernize its military, the F-35 will play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and sovereignty of European skies. This milestone is a clear message that Belgium is prepared to meet the challenges of modern warfare head-on, proudly standing among leading air forces in the world.