Additional F-35A Lightning IIs for Belgium

In July 2025, the Belgian Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed the procurement of 11 additional F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft, bringing the total fleet to 45 aircraft.

This expansion is driven by NATO obligations and increased defence spending. While earlier feasibility studies explored the acquisition of up to 69 jets to meet NATO capability targets, budgetary constraints limited the expansion to 11 additional aircraft.

Belgium initially selected the F-35A in October 2018 to replace its ageing F-16 fleet, entering a €4 billion agreement for 34 aircraft, including training, infrastructure, and long-term support through 2030. The formal procurement contract was signed in April 2020.

As of June 2025, nine F-35A aircraft had been completed by Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth (TX). The ninth aircraft is designated as the first to be delivered directly to Belgium, scheduled to arrive at Florennes Air Base later in 2025. The first eight aircraft remain at Luke Air Force Base (AZ) for pilot and technician training.

The 11 new aircraft will be assembled at the Cameri Final Assembly and Check Out (FACO) facility in Italy, aligning with EU requirements for European-made defense acquisitions. This decision also supports the growth of domestic high-tech industries and improves eligibility for future EU defence funding.

Credit photo: Victoria Fontana (Scramble Archive)