While the first Belgian F-35s are ready and the training of pilots began in Arizona, the federal government plans to order new copies. Could a strategic question arise: could these future fighter planes be produced in Europe rather than in the United States? It is the track explored by the deputy Theo Francken, who sees it as an opportunity to support employment on the continent.
In 2018, the Minister of Defense at the time, Steven Vandeput (N-VA), had placed for 34 F-35 with the American firm Lockheed Martin. These fighter planes are built in Fort Worth in Texas. THE first devices are now ready And the training of pilots began at Luke air base, Arizona.
But the current government is thinking of recently acquiring additional combat aircraft, as provided for in the government agreement. According to Mr. Francken, there is no doubt that they must be F-35.
“I asked the Italian Minister of Defense (Guido Crosetto, editor’s note) if it is possible to produce these planes in Italy and not in the USA. This. would also create jobs in Europe ”said Francken in the Flemish daily newspaper.
However, it is not certain that the F-35 built in Europe are considered to be European purchases. This is a requirement of the EU to borrow more money for defense.
