BRUSSELS: Belgium received its first batch of U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets on Monday, marking a milestone in its transition to next-generation airpower, though one of the four aircraft reportedly suffered a technical malfunction enroute.
Three F-35s successfully landed at Florennes Air Base in Namur province after completing a 2,800-kilometer flight from Texas via the Azores. The arrival ceremony was attended by King Philippe, senior defense officials, and federal ministers.
Local media outlet Het Laatste Nieuws reported that the fourth jet was grounded in the Azores due to a “breakdown” or “technical issue.” Belgium’s Defense Ministry described the incident as a case of “technical uncertainty,” emphasizing that safety remained the top priority.
Earlier on Monday, Defense Minister Theo Francken inaugurated a new F-35 maintenance complex at Florennes, calling the event a “turning point” in Belgium’s defense transformation. The F-35s will replace aging F-16s that have served the Belgian Air Force for over four decades.
Belgian pilots and engineers will receive training in the United States alongside NATO allies. Francken confirmed that Belgium has ordered 34 F-35s and plans to buy 11 more, reinforcing its participation in a European fleet of over 700 aircraft safeguarding the continent’s skies.
