Belgium to add F-35s, spend billions on anti-air in defense catch-up

Belgium to add F-35s, spend billions on anti-air in defense catch-up

The current defense budget can’t patch all the gaps left by years of under-investment, and Belgium will focus on priority areas.

Belgian F-35 Fleet Will Reach 45 Jets, Expanding Existing Order by 11

Belgium will shore up its commitment to the F-35 with a follow-on order for more jets and for cruise missiles to arm them, while also seeking an expanded role in the European FCAS programme. Plans which have circulated since early July were formally approved by the Belgian Government and announced by Minister of Defence Theo […] The post Belgian F-35 Fleet Will Reach 45 Jets, Expanding Existing Order by 11 appeared first on The Aviationist.

Belgium greenlights procurement of additional F-35 jets, decides to buy JSM missiles

The new F-35 aircraft, to be manufactured in Italy, are expected to generate substantial economic benefits. “A very large economic return” is anticipated for Belgium, Francken stated, according to Belga news agency. Alongside the jet purchase, the government has also launched the “Ammunition Readiness Plan 2025” with an initial investment of €2.3 billion ($2.6 billion) earmarked for this year. The plan is designed to counter structural shortages…