Belgium Dispatches F-16s to Bolster Middle Eastern Security Efforts
On Tuesday, September 29, a squadron of four F-16s is scheduled to depart from Florennes Air Base, heading to the Middle East as part of the international coalition’s Operation Inherent Resolve aimed at combating the Islamic State.
This initiative aligns with the Belgian government’s decision made on June 26, 2020, reaffirming Belgium’s commitment to resolution 2249 set by the United Nations Security Council in 2015. This resolution highlights the global threat that Daesh poses to international peace and security.
The decision outlines an operational commitment lasting one year.
A contingent of approximately 100 Belgian soldiers will facilitate the aircraft’s deployment. In recent weeks, all personnel in this detachment have been strategically positioned in the region. Before their deployment, they underwent a mandatory quarantine period due to COVID-19. The first rotation primarily included personnel from Florennes Air Base.
This deployment is critical to prevent a resurgence of IS activity. The aircraft, along with pilots and support staff, will operate from a Middle Eastern base, allowing for timely intervention in support of coalition forces on the ground.
