Belgian Air Force prepares for transition to Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II fleet

During a recent visit to Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, Major General Thierry Dupont, commander of the Belgian Air and Space Component, engaged with U.S. Air Force leaders and observed training activities designed to support this transition. The four-day visit, held from 13–16 January, included discussions on interoperability, training best practices, and leveraging the advanced facilities at Luke AFB to prepare Belgian pilots and technicians for the new aircraft.

“The relationship between Belgium and the United States is built on decades of trust and cooperation,” Dupont stated. “As Belgium transitions to the F-35 platform, it is vital that we continue to learn from one another to maintain mission readiness and ensure global preparation.”

Luke Air Force Base, a key training centre for U.S. and allied F-35 pilots, offers a robust environment for honing skills essential to operating the fifth-generation fighter jet. Belgium, one of several international partners in the F-35 programme, is set to receive its first aircraft in 2024. Belgian personnel embedded at the base are already undergoing training alongside U.S. counterparts, fostering a collaborative approach to mastering the platform.

Colonel Matthew Johnston, deputy commander of the 56th Fighter Wing, highlighted the importance of such partnerships. “The integration of allies into our training programmes not only enhances their operational capabilities but also strengthens our collective ability to respond to global challenges. This collaboration ensures robust deterrence and the ability to decisively respond to security threats around the globe.”

During his visit, Dupont observed live training missions, including joint exercises involving U.S. and Belgian pilots, and toured the 312th Fighter Squadron, where F-35 pilots receive state-of-the-art instruction. He praised the training environment at Luke AFB, describing it as “unparalleled” and essential for preparing Belgian pilots for complex multinational missions.