Belgian pilots complete F-35 training in US, boosting NATO air power

NATO Air Command announced on X that the first Belgian pilots have successfully completed their F-35 training course in the United States.

This achievement represents a significant milestone for the Belgian Air Force as it transitions to the advanced fifth-generation fighter platform, Caliber.Az reports.

First 🇧🇪 pilots complete F-35 training course in 🇺🇸

Another important milestone for the 🇧🇪 Air Force as they transition to the fifth generation platform. The first F-35 is expected in Florennes later this year, increasing Allied capabilities, deterrence & defence

📸 Moors M pic.twitter.com/7omqRvSjlb

— NATO Air Command (@NATO_AIRCOM) July 15, 2025

“The first F-35 is expected in Florennes later this year, increasing Allied capabilities, deterrence and defence,” the statement reads.

Note that, Belgium is transitioning its air force to the F-35A Lightning II, replacing its ageing F-16 fleet.

To facilitate this shift, Belgian pilots and technicians are undergoing comprehensive training at Luke Air Force Base (AFB) in Arizona, integrated into the U.S. 312th Fighter Squadron. This collaboration commenced in 2024, with the first Belgian F-35A arriving at Luke AFB on December 3, 2024.

The training program encompasses both theoretical instruction and practical experience. Pilots with prior F-16 experience undergo six weeks of academic courses, 36 flight simulator sessions, and 26 actual flights.

Newer pilots, trained through the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program, follow a more extended curriculum . Technicians receive training at Eglin AFB in Florida before continuing their education at Luke AFB.

Belgium's F-35A fleet is expected to be operational by 2027, with full capability achieved by 2030.

The training initiative underscores the strong NATO partnership between Belgium and the United States, enhancing interoperability and readiness .

By Aghakazim Guliyev