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Focus F-35 vs. F-16: What Fifth-Generation Fighter Brings to Belgium's Air Force ?.
On December 4, 2024, the Belgian Air Component unveiled the first official images of its F-35 fighter jet in Belgian colors. The aircraft, which recently arrived at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, United States, marks a decisive step in the transition to Belgium’s new combat capability. While this milestone supports the modernization of the Air Component and strengthens its role in defending national airspace and NATO’s collective security framework, it also symbolizes the imminent end of an era for the iconic F-16s, which have served Belgium with distinction for decades. This chapter, soon to close, paves the way for a new era of advanced technology and enhanced operational readiness.
Belgium's first fifth-generation F-35 Fighter Jet (Picture source: Belgium MoD)
The delivery of Belgium's first fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet marks a critical milestone in the country’s efforts to modernize its air force. Approved by the Belgian government in 2018, the F-35 program replaces the aging fleet of F-16s, representing a substantial investment in national defense capabilities. This acquisition aligns with Belgium’s commitments to NATO and the European Union, ensuring its capacity to operate in complex and contested environments while enhancing both national security and collective defense.
From a technical standpoint, the F-35A surpasses the F-16 in nearly every domain. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney F135 engine, it generates a thrust of 43,000 pounds compared to the F-16’s 29,000 pounds with its General Electric F110 engine. This gives the F-35A a maximum speed of Mach 1.6 and a combat range of 1,200 nautical miles (2,200 km) with internal fuel tanks, significantly extending its operational reach. The F-35’s stealth is based on an integrated design and radar-absorbing materials, making it up to 10 times less detectable than the F-16. Additionally, it features an advanced sensor fusion system that compiles real-time data from various onboard sensors (AESA radar AN/APG-81, infrared sensors AN/AAQ-37, and electro-optical targeting system AN/AAQ-40). This data is displayed to pilots through the revolutionary Gen III HMDS helmet, providing a 360° view and unprecedented targeting capabilities.
The F-16, while effective in its time, is limited in its ability to execute high-intensity modern missions. It performs well in air-to-ground and air superiority roles but requires costly modifications for each specific mission. In contrast, the F-35 is designed as a truly versatile multirole platform, capable of simultaneously executing precision strikes, advanced reconnaissance, and electronic warfare operations. For instance, its integrated AN/ASQ-239 electronic warfare system enables it to neutralize sophisticated enemy defenses—an impossible task for the F-16 without external support.
Finally, the F-35 significantly enhances operational availability. Its ALIS (Autonomic Logistics Information System), which is transitioning to ODIN (Operational Data Integrated Network), automates maintenance management, reducing intervention times. By contrast, the F-16, nearing the end of its operational life, faces rising maintenance costs and logistical constraints.
The F-35A Lightning II, now featuring the advanced Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) upgrade, offers significantly enhanced capabilities. This upgrade includes improved computing power, expanded memory, and compatibility with Block 4 advancements, such as modernized sensors, precision weapon systems, and upgraded electronic warfare tools. These features boost the aircraft's ability to detect, engage, and counter sophisticated threats across air, land, and cyber domains, providing pilots with a decisive edge in multi-domain operations.
Equipped with cutting-edge stealth technology, network connectivity, and a versatile weapons suite, the F-35A is capable of executing a broad spectrum of missions, including tactical support, air-to-ground strikes, and strategic deterrence. Its AN/APG-81 radar and Distributed Aperture System (DAS) ensure unmatched situational awareness, enabling long-range threat detection and 360-degree coverage. As a cornerstone of modern airpower, the F-35A strengthens allied air forces' capabilities, ensuring air superiority and enhanced interoperability.
The arrival of the first Belgian F-35 also signals a significant technological and operational transition. Belgian pilots and technicians will undergo training at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, an international hub for F-35 expertise, where allied air forces collaborate closely. This environment ensures comprehensive preparation for operating and maintaining the aircraft's advanced systems, reinforcing Belgium's integration into the global F-35 network alongside European partners such as the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Denmark.
Belgium plans to acquire 34 F-35 aircraft, although the delivery timeline has faced delays, with completion now anticipated by mid-2025. These delays, attributed to industrial and logistical challenges faced by Lockheed Martin, have prompted discussions in the Belgian parliament regarding operational impacts. Financial penalties outlined in the contract aim to address these setbacks. Despite these challenges, the program remains a critical pillar of Belgium's defense strategy, offering transformative capabilities and strengthening its role within NATO and European security frameworks.