Belgium Lays Foundation Stone for Second F-35 Complex

Belgium has commenced construction on its second F-35 complex, with a groundbreaking ceremony taking place at Kleine-Brogel Air Base on May 30.

The new complex is being developed to accommodate the forthcoming fleet of F-35A fighter aircraft, which will replace the current F-16 fleet deployed at Florennes and Kleine-Brogel. Approximately 34 F-35A aircraft, along with 8 flight simulators and associated support equipment, are expected to be stationed at the two bases.

The first arrival of F-35A fighter aircraft is slated for Florennes starting in 2025, with Kleine-Brogel scheduled to receive the new generation of aircraft two years thereafter. Construction on a new F-35 complex commenced in Florennes in March 2023, with expectations of partial completion by the upcoming summer.

Key stakeholders, including Defense officials and representatives from construction firm Jan De Nul, attended the ceremony, which marked the official commencement of construction works. The project is expected to include an administrative building, logistics section, Special Access Program Facility (SAPF), and flightline equipped with Flightline Aircraft Shelters (FAS).

Environmental considerations are integral to the project, with plans to incorporate renewable energy solutions such as solar panels and geothermal installations.