The Luxembourg Air Force, officially known as the Forces Aériennes Luxembourgeoises (FAL), is the aerial warfare branch of the Luxembourg Armed Forces. Established on July 29, 1944, during World War II, it initially operated under Allied control. After the war, in 1945, the FAL became an independent component of the military. The air force primarily focuses on air defense and surveillance missions. Its fleet consists of a small number of aircraft, including reconnaissance planes, transport aircraft, and helicopters. The FAL maintains close cooperation with neighboring countries, particularly Belgium, with whom it shares aircraft for joint operations. The air force has no ability to conduct offensive operations, as Luxembourg declares itself a non-aggressive nation. While small in size, the Luxembourg Air Force ensures the protection of Luxembourg's airspace, conducts search and rescue operations, and provides humanitarian support when necessary.
