#1782 312 FS, Belgian Air & Space Component F-35A print
Description
Squadron Prints Lithograph No. 1782, FL001, F-35A Lightning II, Belgian Air & Space Component, Luke AFB, Arizona.
The Belgian Air & Space Component has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 20th century. Founded in 1909 as the “Compagnie des Ouvriers et Aérostiers”, it soon played a crucial role during World War I. In the 1930s, Belgium expanded and modernized its fleet with new fighter aircraft. However, World War II had a devastating impact, with many infrastructures and aircraft destroyed or damaged. After the war, the Belgian Air Force was established and began its rebuilding and modernization efforts. The introduction of jet aircraft in the 1950s marked the beginning of a new era of advanced air power. Throughout its history, the Belgian Air Force evolved to the Belgian Air Component and subsequently the Belgian Air & Space Component, employing aircraft such as the Meteor, the F-84 Thunderjet, the Hunter, the F-104 Starfighter, the Mirage V and the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The F-16 Fighting Falcon has played an important role in the country’s air defense and international security operations. Consequently, since its introduction in 1979, the F-16 remained the backbone of the Belgian Air & Space Component. Upgrades and continuous enhancements ensured its relevance in modern warfare. The F-16 squadrons gradually transition to the F-35A while maintaining their tradition of military excellence and relevance. The F-35A is significantly improving the operational capabilities of the Belgian Defense, while the experience and expertise of the F-16 squadrons provide a solid foundation for the future. The establishment of the Belgian F-35 Conversion Unit, based at Luke AFB in Phoenix, Arizona, is the first important step for this new capability. This unit is integrated into the U.S. 312th Fighter Squadron. The 312th FS has a rich and dynamic history that reflects its evolution through various missions and designations over the years. Originally formed during World War II, the squadron has continually adapted to meet the demands of the United States Air Force and its allies. The 312th FS has embraced new challenges, being redesignated and reactivated on June 1, 2023. Serving as the home of the Belgian F-35A aircraft in Luke AFB, the 312th FS is responsible for training Belgian maintenance personnel, simulator instructors and pilots on the F-35A. As the Belgian F-35A aircraft become fully operational, they will play a critical role in supporting training and operations, ensuring that Belgium’s Air & Space Component continues to uphold its legacy of military excellence and relevance.
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