The Belgian detachment includes four F-16 fighters and around 100 supporting personnel, who will remain on Quick Reaction Alert in Iceland until mid-September 2025. Fighter controllers will work closely with the Icelandic Coast Guard and personnel from “Loki,” the Control and Reporting Centre in Keflavik, to safeguard NATO airspace in the Arctic region.
“This deployment demonstrates our continued commitment to NATO’s Air Policing mission,” said Major Artiges, Belgian Detachment Commander. “This will be the first time in Iceland and we look forward to the challenging operating environment and training opportunities it will provide us,” he added.
The Belgian force succeeds Spanish EF/A-18M Hornet fighters, who had been stationed in Iceland since July 2025. During the mission, Belgian aircraft will conduct routine intercepts, airspace surveillance, identification flights, and integrated training missions with NATO Allies.
Since 2008, NATO Allies have regularly undertaken air surveillance missions in Iceland as part of the Alliance’s commitment to the country’s security and defence. With Iceland’s strategic location, NATO maintains a periodic fighter presence in agreement with Icelandic authorities to ensure its airspace remains safe and secure.
