A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 95th Fighter Squadron takes off at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, on March 1, 2024. [Courtesy: U.S. Air Force]
Key Takeaways:
Belgium has received its first F-35A Lightning II for in-country service, officially integrating it into the Belgian Air Component at Florennes Air Base.
This delivery is part of a broader allied effort to strengthen national and collective NATO air defenses across Europe, complementing increased ground forces, especially in response to Russia's actions.
The F-35 is the fighter of choice for 20 U.S.-allied nations, including 13 in Europe, and Belgium plans to expand its fleet to 45 aircraft.
The first F-35A Lightning II designated for in-country service with Belgium’s air force arrived at Florennes Air Base on Tuesday.
Lockheed Martin officials joined a ceremony hosted by the Belgian Air Component to mark the fighter jet’s official integration into its operations, a move aimed at bolstering national and collective NATO defenses.
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Caleb Revill is a journalist, writer and lifelong learner working as a Junior Writer for Firecrown. When he isn't tackling breaking news, Caleb is on the lookout for fascinating feature stories.
![A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 95th Fighter Squadron takes off at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, on March 1, 2024. [Courtesy: U.S. Air Force]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/8300878-scaled-1.jpg)
