Belgian Air Component

The Belgium Air Force, officially known as the Belgian Air Component, is the aerial branch of the Belgian Armed Forces. Established in 1909, it is one of the oldest air forces in the world. During World War I, the Belgian Air Force played a vital role in reconnaissance and defense operations. In World War II, the force was reorganized and actively took part in various campaigns. Following the war, the air force underwent significant modernization and adopted advanced aircraft systems, such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Currently, the Belgium Air Force operates a fleet of mainly F-16 fighter aircraft alongside transport aircraft like the C-130 Hercules. It also possesses various helicopter types for different missions. The air force is responsible for protecting Belgian airspace, conducting surveillance, providing support to ground forces, and participating in international peacekeeping missions. Belgium is an active member of NATO and frequently collaborates with other armed forces, engaging in joint training exercises and operations.

Key facts

Official Name	Belgian Air Component
Local Name	Luchtcomponent
Country	🇧🇪 Belgium
World rank	#71
Active aircrafts	106 (as of 2024)
Aircrafts on order	35
Roundel

Number of active aircrafts by type

Aircraft type	Active
Combat aircrafts	44
Training	36
Helicopters	20
Transport	6

Aircrafts most used by Belgian air forces

Aircraft	Active	Type
F-16 Fighting Falcon	52	American multirole fighter, famed in late Cold War conflicts, renowned for performance in precision daytime strikes and defensive counter air operations.
SF-260	28	Italian light military trainer, globally utilized since the 1960s, renowned for its aerobatic capabilities and air force service.
AW109	13	Italian multipurpose helicopter, notable for its use in law enforcement, air ambulance and military roles since the late 1970s.
NH90	7	European multinational medium-sized military helicopter, known for deployment in various peace-keeping and combat missions since the 1990s.
A400M Atlas	6	European military transport aircraft, notable for strategic deployments in operations worldwide since the 2000s.
F-35 Lightning II	0	American multirole stealth fighter, developed in the early 21st century, extensively deployed in global military operations.

Full inventory in 2024