Belgium weighs F‑35 expansion amid strained us relations
The Belgian Defence Minister, Theo Francken, has acknowledged that F-35 fighter jets are vital for the security of Belgium and the entirety of Europe. However, the potential acquisition of more units will depend on the concessions the USA is prepared to offer.
In 2018, the Belgian government ordered 34 F-35 fighter jets, which are currently in production. Several aircraft have already been completed, allowing the training of Belgian pilots to commence at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.
Belgium considers additional F-35s
In an interview with the newspaper "Het Laatste Nieuws," Theo Francken revealed that he has already approached his Italian counterpart regarding the possibility of manufacturing additional F-35 fighter jets in Italy, rather than in the USA, should Belgium decide to order more. The request concerns the military facility in Cameri, which already has an assembly line for Italian and Dutch F-35s.
"I asked the Italian Defence Minister if we could produce them in Italy instead of the USA, which would also create additional European jobs," Francken was quoted as saying by the Belgian newspaper.
Belgium loses trust in the USA
The French portal Opex360 notes that Belgium's order for F-35s stemmed from the need for aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons (in line with NATO's nuclear strategy). This has taken on added importance following the recent actions of the Trump administration, which have raised numerous concerns among European NATO members.
"If President Trump decides tomorrow to withdraw American nuclear weapons from Europe and the threat from Russia continues, we will have to adapt," Francken commented.
Donald Trump's actions have led to a loss of confidence in US purchases. Some countries are contemplating measures far more radical than those considered by Belgium. For instance, the Canadian government has begun reviewing the contract for 88 ordered F-35 fighter jets, while the Portuguese authorities have admitted that, in considering the replacement of their F-16 fleet, they are "analysing all options, with the F-35 no longer being the favourite."
Belgium chose the conventional variant of this fighter jet, the F-35A, for the air force. This is a single-seat, multi-role fighter jet, noted for its stealth technology in addition to its nuclear weapon capability. According to unofficial sources, the Belgian government might place an additional order for 14 more units.
