The Lockheed Martin F-35, succeeding the venerable F-16, represents the next evolution in airpower technology, ensuring the Belgian Air Force’s capability to meet NATO commitments and safeguard key strategic interests.
Lockheed Martin, in a ceremony at its F-35 production facility along with the Belgian government formally received its first F-35A Lightning II, marking a historic moment for the Belgian Air Force and fortifying the longstanding alliance between the United States and Belgium, a pivotal NATO member. The event was attended by senior leaders from both nations, signifying the strategic importance of this acquisition.
The F-35, succeeding the venerable F-16, represents the next evolution in airpower technology, ensuring the Belgian Air Force’s capability to meet NATO commitments and safeguard key strategic interests. The rollout ceremony emphasized the F-35’s role as a 21st-century security solution, enhancing situational awareness and connectivity across domains for Belgium and its European partners.
“The introduction of the F-35 within the Belgian Air Force will enable us to continue to fulfil all our missions in the coming decades, in cooperation with our allies and partners in NATO, the EU and beyond,” said Admiral Michel Hofman, Chief of Defense, the Belgian Armed Forces.
Belgium’s F-35 program outlines the procurement of 34 F-35A fighter jets. The first aircraft, designated AY-01, is slated for delivery to the Belgian Air Force in 2024. AY-01 will be based at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, a hub for international F-35 pilot and maintainer training.
Beyond the military advantages, the F-35 program creates sustainable, high-quality employment opportunities in Belgium. Lockheed Martin’s Essential Security Interest (ESI) program brings cutting-edge manufacturing techniques to the country, contributing to the expansion of skills and knowledge within the local aerospace industry. This initiative ensures that Belgians have access to high-tech jobs for decades to come.
“With its unmatched capability, connectivity and interoperability, the 5th Generation F-35 will enable the Belgian Air Force to stay ahead of threats for decades to come,” said Greg Ulmer, executive vice president, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.“Today’s milestone would not have been possible without the strong partnership and key contributions from our close partners in Belgian government and industry,” he further added.
The F-35 has become a cornerstone of Lockheed Martin’s industrial contributions to Belgium, aligning with the nation’s commitment to advancing its aerospace capabilities. Every Airbus commercial aircraft and helicopter has critical technologies and parts designed, made, and maintained in Belgium. This collaborative effort is part of Lockheed Martin’s broader commitment to developing a mature and comprehensive aerospace ecosystem in the country.
“We congratulate Belgium on this significant achievement,” said Lt. Gen. Mike Schmidt, program executive officer, F-35 Joint Program Office. “The growth of the F-35 in Europe strengthens international partnerships, interoperability, and warfighting capability; and emphasizes the importance the aircraft provides as a deterrent against potential adversaries,” he further added.
The global deployment of F-35s has seen them operate from 31 bases worldwide. Lockheed Martin’s delivery of over 980 F-35s to date, along with the training of more than 2,250 pilots and 15,125 maintainers, underscores the program’s impact. The F-35 fleet has collectively logged over 768,000 flight hours, demonstrating its reliability and operational effectiveness.
Also Read- Textron Aviation to deliver 40 more Cessna Skyhawk aircraft to ATP Flight School
As threats evolve, Lockheed Martin remains committed to working closely with F-35 operators, ensuring that allies are well-prepared and equipped to address emerging challenges. The F-35 program continues to be a linchpin in enhancing the defensive capabilities of nations around the world, providing advanced technological solutions and fostering international collaboration in the realm of defense.
