About Us

Introduction

The Belgian Air Force has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 20th century. Established in 1909, it soon played a crucial role in World War I and World War II, continuing to evolve through the era of the Mirage 5 into the late 70’s.

The F-16 Fighting Falcon has played an important role in Belgium’s air defense and international security operations. Introduced in 1979, it has remained the backbone of the Belgian Air Force. Through upgrades and continuous enhancements, the F-16 has remained relevant in modern warfare. While preserving their tradition of military excellence, F-16 squadrons and maintainers gradually started transitioning to the F-35A in 2024. The F-35A significantly enhances the operational capabilities of Belgian Defence, while the experience and expertise of the F-16 community provide a solid foundation for this new era.

A major step in this transition was the establishment of the Belgian F-35 Conversion Unit at Luke Air Force Base in Phoenix, Arizona. This unit was integrated into the U.S. 312th Fighter Squadron, which was redesignated and reactivated on June 1, 2023, to embrace new challenges. The squadron now serves as the home of Belgian F-35A aircraft at Luke AFB and is responsible for training Belgian maintenance personnel, simulator instructors, and pilots.

Where we came from

Every member of this transition to fifth generation aircraft comes from the F-16 community, bringing with them invaluable experience and specialized technical expertise. The squadron consolidates the technical and managerial diversity of former F-16 maintenance flights into one highly proficient unit.

After a long period of preparation, the first Belgian maintainers and managers received initial training at the Academic Training Center at Eglin AFB before joining the 312th Squadron at Luke AFB - specifically the 312th Aircraft Maintenance Unit (AMU) - to continue hands-on training with the first eight F-35 aircraft.

At the same time, the Lightning Implementation Team (LIT) was created at the 2nd Tactical Wing in Florennes to establish every foundational element for the F-35 capability. The team has gradually expanded to prepare for the arrival of the new jets and personnel, strengthening its size and capabilities to support their integration and tackle upcoming operational challenges.

On July 11, 2025, the unification of the various training and working groups was completed, officially forming the MX F-35 Squadron. This new unit is supported by the MX Ops & Training Squadron, the MX SP Squadron (logistics), and the ERSO for technical training — not to mention our Force Protection Squadrons, who ensure our security.

What we are

Operating in close synergy with the 10th Squadron “Dragons” in order to support flying activities for the 1st Squadron “Stingers” - officially designated as the Air Force's first F-35 unit on July 16, 2025 - the team exemplifies a spirit of cooperation, interoperability, and collective strength across the Air Force.

Looking ahead, the squadron is fully dedicated to the rapid integration and operational deployment of the F-35A. Its core mission is to allow safeguard national airspace, ensure your security and maintain a high level of maintenance and knowledge, while consistently meeting NATO’s strategic objectives with precision and unwavering readiness. This mission is driven by the fundamental values of The Belgian Defense: integrity, respect, loyalty, and courage and proudly displays its new moto: "ARTE MILITAMUS, SEMPER PARATUS"

"We fight with technique, always ready."

OUR GOALS

COORDINATION

1

2

HIGH LEVELS

3

READINESS

Operating in close synergy with the 10th Squadron “Dragons” in order to support flying activities for the 1st Squadron “Stingers”

Maintain a high level of maintenance and knowledge

The squadron is fully dedicated to the rapid integration and operational deployment of the F-35A

Our Specialities

Tech Cat B2

Aircraft Avionics & Weapons Specialists

MXMGR

Maintenance Management

Tech Cat B1

Aircraft Engine, Airframe & Electrician Specialists

ADMIN

LOG

OTS

LO

PFE

SP

Tech CatA

Aircraft Maintainers

Low Observability Specialists

Pilot Flight Equipment

Administration

Logistics

Network system

Support Equipment Specialists