Belgium strengthens air force with more F‑35 fighters amid debate
According to the Army Recognition portal, the Belgian authorities have decided to purchase additional F-35 fighters. Despite recent unsettling actions by the U.S. administration and voices expressing concern over Europe's heavy reliance on American weaponry, the Belgians see acquiring more F-35s as a necessary step.
Experts dismiss the possibility of a complete remote shutdown of the F-35. However, questions remain about whether the United States has other options to reduce the combat capabilities of F-35s in other countries. Consequently, countries like Canada and Portugal are considering withdrawing from purchasing the F-35.
Belgium wants additional F-35s
In Belgium, such deliberations are now settled. Defence Minister Theo Francken stated, "The mythical emergency switch does not exist," and the purchase of additional F-35 fighters was confirmed during a parliamentary session by Prime Minister Bart De Wever. Although he did not specify the number of units, according to Army Recognition, there will be 11.
The portal also notes that the fighters might be produced in Italy rather than in the USA, as was the case with the F-35s the Belgians previously ordered. The Belgians hope this will reduce dependence on the American supply chain and potentially create new jobs in Europe.
Modern 5th generation machine
Currently, the U.S. is producing 34 F-35s that Belgium ordered in 2018. This order was motivated, in part, by the need for aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons and fulfilling NATO's nuclear plans.
Initially, it was expected that the first of these aircraft would arrive in Belgium in 2023. However, the timeline was shifted first to the end of 2024, and ultimately to 2025. It is currently estimated that the full operational readiness of the 34 Belgian F-35s will only be achieved by the end of 2030.
In the Belgian Air Force, the F-35s will replace the retiring F-16 fighters, some of which will be transferred to Ukraine. The F-35 is a more modern, multi-role 5th generation aircraft with reduced detectability (also known as stealth technology). It is a fighter capable of conducting electronic warfare and carrying several tons of conventional weaponry. It can reach speeds of about 1.6 Mach (approximately 2,000 km/h) and operate at altitudes up to about 15 kilometres.
Among the countries awaiting F-35 deliveries is Poland, which has ordered 32 units.
