The Belgian Air Component’s first F-35A Lightning II arrived at Luke Air Force Base, neighboring the City of Litchfield Park, on Tuesday Dec. 3.

The arrival of the aircraft marks the start of international training that will help Belgium’s transition from the F-16 Fighting Falcon to the advanced fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

The training starts the process of establishing a new fighter squadron, with Belgian pilots at Luke Air Force Base beginning their training in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force.

“It’s a historic day for the Belgian Air Component,” stated Lt. Col. Pierre-Yves Libert, senior national representative for the 312th Fighter Squadron. “Our first jet just landed at Luke Air Force Base, marking the start of our training period. A lot of work has gone into making this moment possible and we are excited to begin flying and complete our training.”

Belgium’s training efforts will include a newly renovated building at Luke Air Force Base to enhance pilot and maintenance training. Belgian pilots are also participating in the Simulator Subject Matter Expert course, which will support the creation of an academic training center in Belgium.

“Everyone’s worked really hard for this day,” stated Lt. Col. Jason Wall, commander of the 312th Fighter Squadron. “More jets will arrive in the coming months, and our students are ready to fly as soon as maintenance turns this jet over for operations.”

The arrival of the F-35A marks the beginning of Belgium’s transition to fifth-generation fighter capabilities. Replacing the F-16, the F-35A is expected to strengthen Belgium's air defense capabilities and contribute to NATO's collective defense.

The F-35A is widely regarded as a leap forward in fighter technology, offering advanced stealth, sensors, and multirole capabilities. Its stealth features make it harder for enemy radar to detect, allowing Belgian pilots to operate with increased survivability in contested airspaces. Equipped with cutting-edge avionics and radar, the F-35A can track multiple targets and provide unparalleled situational awareness. Its versatility allows the aircraft to perform a wide variety of missions, from air superiority and precision strikes to intelligence gathering and close air support.

“This moment reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved,” Wall stated. “I’m proud to lead this effort and set up the squadron for success.”

The Belgian F-35A program also signifies enhanced collaboration with NATO allies, as the advanced fighter will integrate seamlessly into joint operations.

As more F-35As arrive in the coming months, Belgium will be able to tap into the aircraft’s global interoperability, further strengthening its role in NATO defense initiatives. Additional F-35As are expected to arrive at Luke Air Force Base in the coming months as part of Belgium’s transition. The base, a primary training location for U.S. and allied pilots, will continue to support Belgium’s transition to the F-35A. 

Visit luke.af.mil for more information.