BAF Days Showcase New Belgian F-35s Alongside Aged Greek and Turkish F-4s | iDNES.cz

Florennes Air Base buzzed with activity as it hosted the Belgian Air Force Days on June 27-28, 2026. The event marked a significant milestone: the 80th anniversary of the Belgian military air force as a distinct branch of the armed forces. More than 40,000 aviation enthusiasts and members of the public flocked to the base from across Europe to witness the celebrations.

The undisputed star of the show was the highly anticipated public debut of the new F-35A Lightning II fighter jets in Belgian colors. This marked the first time the advanced aircraft, set to become a cornerstone of the Belgian air defense, was showcased to a wider audience. The presence of the F-35A underscored Belgium's commitment to modernizing its air capabilities.

Adding a touch of historical gravitas to the event were the venerable F-4 Phantom II aircraft. These legendary warbirds, flown in from Greece and Turkey, provided a striking contrast to the cutting-edge F-35s. Their participation offered attendees a glimpse into the rich heritage of military aviation and the evolution of fighter jet technology, celebrating both the past and the future of the Belgian Air Force.