Belgium Gets 11 More F-35 Jets in Ongoing Arms Upgrade
Published Date: 4/15/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. is updating Belgium on a big arms deal that adds 11 new F-35 fighter jets and 12 engines to their fleet, boosting their defense power. This upgrade is part of a $6.53 billion package originally announced in 2018, with major equipment worth $4.53 billion. The deal keeps things moving smoothly with extra support, training, and gear to back up Belgium’s air force.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Belgium adds 11 F-35s and 12 engines
The transmittal notifies the inclusion of eleven (11) F-35 CTOL aircraft and twelve (12) Pratt & Whitney F-135 engines (11 installed, 1 spare) to the previously notified 2018 package (Transmittal No. 17-80). This update was delivered to Congress on February 26, 2026.
Deal value increases to $9.83 billion
The notice reports new items valued at $3.3 billion and states Major Defense Equipment (MDE) value increases by $1.7 billion to a revised $6.23 billion; non-MDE increases by $1.6 billion to a revised $3.6 billion, making the revised total case value $9.83 billion.
Sale intended to deter aggression, ensure interoperability
The transmittal states the proposed articles and services will provide Belgium with a credible defense capability to deter aggression in the region and ensure interoperability with U.S. forces.
Technology sensitivity classified SECRET
The notice states that the highest level of classification of defense articles, components, and services included in this potential sale is SECRET and that the Sensitivity of Technology Statement from the original 2018 notification applies.
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