Belgium could potentially have additional F-35 fighter jets manufactured in Italy instead of the United States, according to Defence Minister Theo Francken.
Belgium has already ordered 34 F-35 jets from US manufacturer Lockheed Martin, with production currently based in Texas. However, Francken plans for any additional jets to be produced at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Italy.
Francken discussed this proposal on Wednesday with Michael Williamson, head of Lockheed Martin International, during a meeting in Washington. The minister announced via social media platform X that Belgium’s future F-35 orders could be produced in Italy. He emphasised that this would particularly apply if NATO mandates additional aircraft purchases. Prime Minister Bart De Wever had previously mentioned that such mandates would obligate the government to comply.
There is still debate within the Belgian government about the necessity of acquiring more American jets. Yvan Verougstraete, leader of the Les Engagés party, argued last month against further US purchases, suggesting that resources could be better used elsewhere. “Otherwise, we will only increase our dependence on the United States,” he warned.
