Defense & Military
Belgium Reconsiders FCAS Role Amid F-35 Purchase Criticism
Belgium reviews its participation in the European FCAS program after criticism of its expanded F-35 fighter jet procurement.
Belgium Reconsiders FCAS Role After Dassault CEO Slams F-35 Purchase
Belgium’s defense policy is under renewed scrutiny following high-profile criticism from Dassault Aviation CEO Éric Trappier. The controversy centers around Belgium’s recent decision to expand its fleet of U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets while simultaneously seeking deeper involvement in the European Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program. This dual-track strategy has raised questions about national loyalty, industrial policy, and the future of collaborative European defense initiatives.
The clash underscores a broader tension within the European defense landscape: how to balance sovereign procurement decisions with the collective ambition to reduce reliance on non-European technologies. For Belgium, a NATO member with deep transatlantic ties, the decision to invest in American-built jets while aspiring to benefit from a pan-European defense program is both strategic and controversial.
This article explores the background of Belgium’s involvement in FCAS, the recent developments that triggered a diplomatic and industrial backlash, and the broader implications for European defense cooperation and sovereignty.
Understanding FCAS and Belgium’s Position
The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) is a joint European defense initiative led by France, Germany, and Spain. Its goal is to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet and an integrated system of systems, including unmanned aerial vehicles and a secure combat cloud. The project is seen as a cornerstone of European defense sovereignty, aiming to replace current fighter fleets such as the Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, and F-18 by 2040.
Belgium joined the FCAS program in 2023 as an observer, committing €360 million. The country has expressed interest in becoming a full partner by 2026, with an additional €300 million earmarked for Phase 2 of the program. This involvement is seen as a strategic move to secure industrial participation and align with broader EU defense goals.
However, Belgium’s parallel procurement of 45 F-35 fighter jets from the United States, 34 initially ordered in 2018 and 11 more in 2025, has complicated its position. The additional 11 jets cost approximately €1.67 billion, a significant investment that has drawn criticism from some European defense stakeholders.
Strategic Motivations and Industrial Participation
Belgium’s interest in FCAS is driven by several factors. Firstly, participation in a major European defense project offers opportunities for domestic industry through subcontracting and technology transfers. Secondly, aligning with EU defense initiatives helps meet political and strategic objectives, including reduced dependency on non-European suppliers.
Despite these motivations, Belgium’s F-35 procurement is based on operational and logistical considerations. The F-35 is a proven platform with NATO interoperability and advanced capabilities. Its acquisition allows Belgium to replace its aging F-16 fleet with minimal disruption.
Moreover, the F-35s ordered by Belgium are assembled in Italy, which some officials argue still contributes to the European defense industrial base. However, critics contend that design and intellectual property remain firmly American, limiting Europe’s strategic autonomy.
“If [Belgium] gives up the idea of buying F-35s, they’d be welcome. If not, it’s really making a monkey out of us.” – Éric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation
Financial and Political Stakes
The FCAS program is currently in Phase 1B, with a budget of €3.2 billion allocated for 2022–2025. The total cost of the program is projected to exceed €100 billion. These figures underscore the scale and ambition of the initiative, as well as the importance of stable and committed partners.
Belgium’s €300 million pledge for Phase 2 is not insignificant, but it pales in comparison to the financial commitments of founding members. This has fueled perceptions that Belgium seeks to benefit from FCAS without sharing proportional risks, especially while investing heavily in a competing American system.
Defense Minister Theo Francken has defended Belgium’s position, citing the country’s dual obligations to NATO and the EU. He dismissed Trappier’s comments as “arrogant,” and emphasized that Belgium remains committed to European defense, even if it makes pragmatic procurement choices.
Industry Reactions and Broader Implications
The fallout from Trappier’s comments has reignited debate over the coherence of European defense policy. Manufacturers note that FCAS has long struggled with internal disagreements, particularly between Dassault and Airbus over leadership roles and intellectual property rights. Belgium’s ambiguous stance adds another layer of complexity to an already fragile alliance.
Some experts argue that Belgium’s actions reflect a broader trend among smaller European nations, which prioritize immediate operational needs over long-term strategic autonomy. Others warn that such decisions risk undermining collaborative efforts and delaying critical projects like FCAS.
In parallel, the UK-led Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), involving Italy and Japan, is emerging as a potential rival to FCAS. If FCAS continues to face delays and disputes, more countries could pivot towards GCAP or other alternatives, fragmenting the European defense landscape further.
Balancing NATO and EU Commitments
Belgium’s situation illustrates the challenge of balancing NATO obligations with EU defense ambitions. The alliance encourages members to meet a defense spending target of at least 2% of GDP, prompting many to invest in off-the-shelf solutions like the F-35. However, such decisions can clash with EU goals of fostering indigenous capabilities.
Francken has emphasized that Belgium’s F-35 acquisition is consistent with NATO standards and ensures operational readiness. Nevertheless, the optics of simultaneously seeking deeper FCAS involvement while expanding American procurement have drawn scrutiny.
Some EU policymakers argue for clearer guidelines on participation in joint defense programs, including procurement alignment. Without such coordination, initiatives like FCAS risk becoming politically and financially unsustainable.
Future of FCAS and European Defense Integration
The FCAS program remains a cornerstone of European defense integration, but its success hinges on unity and mutual trust. Belgium’s reconsideration of its role could prompt other nations to reassess their commitments, especially if industrial disputes and financial burdens persist.
To maintain momentum, FCAS leaders may need to establish more inclusive governance structures, accommodate diverse procurement histories, and prioritize transparency in workshare agreements. Otherwise, the project risks losing credibility and partners to alternative programs.
Ultimately, Belgium’s decision will serve as a litmus test for the viability of pan-European defense cooperation in an era of geopolitical uncertainty and fiscal pressure.
Conclusion
Belgium’s reconsideration of its FCAS role following criticism over its F-35 procurement reflects deep-rooted tensions in European defense policy. While the country seeks to balance NATO requirements with EU ambitions, its actions have reignited debates about loyalty, industrial fairness, and strategic coherence.
As FCAS moves into its next phase, the program’s leaders must address internal disputes and clarify participation criteria to avoid further fragmentation. Belgium’s final decision will not only shape its own defense trajectory but also signal the future direction of European military cooperation.
FAQ
Why is Belgium reconsidering its role in FCAS?
Belgium is reassessing its involvement due to criticism from Dassault Aviation’s CEO over its decision to buy more U.S.-made F-35 jets while participating in a European defense program.
What is the Future Combat Air System (FCAS)?
FCAS is a European defense initiative led by France, Germany, and Spain to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet and integrated combat systems by 2040.
How many F-35s has Belgium ordered?
Belgium has ordered a total of 45 F-35 fighter jets, 34 in 2018 and 11 more in 2025.
What are the financial implications of Belgium’s F-35 purchase?
The additional 11 F-35s cost approximately €1.67 billion, raising concerns about Belgium’s commitment to European defense programs.
Could Belgium leave the FCAS program?
While a full withdrawal is unlikely, Belgium is currently reviewing its level of participation in the project.
Sources
Reuters, Euractiv, Defense Post, Aviationa2z, National Interest, AInvest
Photo Credit: Reuters
Defense & Military
USAF Launches EPAWSS Speedline to Accelerate F-15E Modernization
The USAF establishes an EPAWSS Speedline at Warner Robins to rapidly upgrade F-15E Strike Eagles with advanced electronic warfare systems starting June 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center.
Air Force Launches EPAWSS Speedline to Accelerate F-15E Modernization
On May 26, 2026, the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) announced the establishment of a dedicated “Speedline” facility at the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex (WR-ALC) in Georgia. This new initiative is designed to rapidly accelerate the installation of the Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) on the U.S. Air Force’s F-15E Strike Eagle fleet.
According to the official press release, the Speedline facility is slated to receive its first F-15E aircraft for installation in June 2026. By decoupling these critical electronic warfare upgrades from standard Programmed Depot Maintenance (PDM) schedules, the Air Force aims to field advanced defensive capabilities much faster than previously possible.
We note that this shift in maintenance strategy allows the military to upgrade jets up to five to seven years ahead of their routine maintenance cycles. This collaborative effort between the AFLCMC’s F-15 System Program Office and the WR-ALC is expected to significantly boost fleet readiness against modern electromagnetic threats.
Breaking the Maintenance Bottleneck
Operational Independence
Historically, major system upgrades for fighter aircraft have been tied to their routine depot maintenance schedules, which can create bottlenecks for fielding urgent technology. The AFLCMC’s new Speedline operates entirely independently of the standard PDM line.
This operational independence provides the F-15 System Program Office and WR-ALC the flexibility to install the EPAWSS on aircraft that are not due for routine maintenance for another five to seven years. By treating the electronic warfare upgrade as a standalone priority, the Air Force can modernize its fleet at a pace dictated by tactical necessity rather than logistical routine.
Understanding the EPAWSS Upgrade
Replacing Cold War-Era Technology
The Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System is a next-generation, all-digital electronic warfare suite. Based on the provided research data, it is designed to replace the legacy Tactical Electronic Warfare System (TEWS), which relies on Cold War-era analog equipment.
Developed by prime contractor BAE Systems, with Boeing serving as the prime contractor for integration, EPAWSS provides fully integrated radar warning, geolocation, situational awareness, and self-protection solutions. The system allows the aircraft to detect, identify, and defeat surface and airborne threats in highly contested, dense signal environments.
Financial and Production Milestones
The U.S. Air Force officially cleared EPAWSS for full-rate production in early 2025. Concurrently, the Air Force awarded a $615.8 million contract to Boeing to cover the installation of these systems. Shortly after this award, the first fully equipped F-15E was delivered to the 48th Fighter Wing at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom, marking a major milestone in the modernization of the 4th-generation fleet.
Strategic Importance and Lethality
Expanding the F-15E’s Capabilities
The integration of EPAWSS is not merely a defensive measure; it is a comprehensive upgrade to the aircraft’s survivability and lethality. In the official AFLCMC release, military leadership emphasized the strategic necessity of the system.
“The F-15E Strike Eagle remains a cornerstone of our tactical airpower and deep strike capabilities. The integration of advanced electronic warfare suites, such as the Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System, ensures the F-15E will not just survive, but actively disrupt and dismantle adversary kill chains in the most highly contested, electromagnetically dense environments.”
, Lt. Col. Matthew Heil, F-15 Program Office, EPAWSS Materiel Leader
AirPro News analysis
We observe that the creation of the EPAWSS Speedline reflects a broader Department of Defense trend toward agile logistics and sustainment. By separating critical combat upgrades from time-consuming depot maintenance, the military is demonstrating a commitment to fielding new technologies to the warfighter at a much faster pace.
Furthermore, as the U.S. Air Force continues to develop and field 5th-generation fighters like the F-35 and F-22, alongside future 6th-generation platforms, maintaining the survivability of 4th-generation “workhorse” aircraft is a strategic priority. EPAWSS ensures that older airframes like the F-15E can safely and effectively operate alongside stealth fighters in modern, highly contested combat scenarios, bridging the gap between legacy platforms and future air dominance initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EPAWSS Speedline?
The EPAWSS Speedline is a dedicated installation facility at the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex designed to rapidly equip F-15E Strike Eagles with the new Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System, independent of standard maintenance schedules.
When will the first aircraft be upgraded at the Speedline?
According to the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, the facility is slated to receive its first F-15E aircraft for installation in June 2026.
Who are the primary contractors for EPAWSS?
BAE Systems is the prime contractor that developed the EPAWSS, while Boeing serves as the prime contractor for the system’s integration and installation on the F-15E.
Sources
Photo Credit: U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Codie Trimble
Defense & Military
Final A-10 Engine Build Marks End of Davis-Monthan Maintenance Era
Davis-Monthan AFB completes last A-10 engine build as USAF extends aircraft service life through 2030, ending a 50-year maintenance mission.
This article is based on an official press release from Air Combat Command.
On May 21, 2026, Airmen at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona officially completed their final A-10 Thunderbolt II engine build. According to an official release from Air Combat Command, this milestone marks the end of a decades-long maintenance mission for the 355th Component Maintenance Squadron (CMS) and serves as a symbolic closing chapter for the base’s 50-year legacy with the iconic close-air-support aircraft.
While the U.S. Air-Forces recently announced a partial extension of the A-10’s operational life through 2030, the formal training and heavy maintenance pipelines, including the dedicated Davis-Monthan engine shop, are officially shutting down. As the military transitions to future platforms, the completion of this final General Electric TF34 turbofan engine represents the end of an era for the maintainers who kept the “Warthog” flying.
We at AirPro News have reviewed the official military releases and supplementary research to provide a comprehensive look at what this final build means for the U.S. Air Force, the maintainers on the ground, and the future of the A-10 fleet.
A Historic Final Build for the 355th CMS
A standard A-10 engine build is a rigorous, multi-stage operation that typically takes 30 days to complete. The process involves meticulous inspection, repair, rebuilding, and testing of the General Electric TF34 turbofan engines that power the A-10C Thunderbolt II. According to military reports, a single crew of five maintainers usually handles the entire process for a given engine.
Hands-On Participation
For this historic final build, the 355th CMS broke from tradition. Every member of the shop participated, ensuring that all personnel had the opportunity to put their hands on the final engine throughout its diagnostic runs and final inspection. The final engine test was successfully conducted in the test cell on April 30, 2026, verifying its performance and flight readiness.
The process officially concluded on May 21, 2026, when Tech. Sgt. Logan Lamb, a 355th Maintenance Group quality assurance inspector, stamped the final inspection form. Wing leadership and the 355th CMS gathered to celebrate the completion, reflecting on the gravity of their work.
“Some, if not all these engines have saved lives on the ground through close air support missions, and some have carried pilots home while the other engine was damaged. All members of the shop put eyes and hands on this engine throughout the build, testing, diagnostic runs and final inspection. Typically, only one crew of five would work on any one engine, but this engine has been touched by everyone.”
The Warthog’s Legacy and Future Operations
Davis-Monthan AFB has served as the primary hub for A-10 operations and training for nearly 50 years. However, the base began divesting its A-10 fleet in February 2024, sending the first aircraft to the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group, commonly known as the “Boneyard.” On April 3, 2026, the 357th Fighter Squadron at Davis-Monthan graduated its final class of A-10 pilots, permanently closing the formal training pipeline for the aircraft.
Service Extension Through 2030
Despite the closures at Davis-Monthan, the A-10 will continue to fly. On April 20, 2026, Air Force Secretary Troy E. Meink announced that the Air Force will extend the service life of the remaining A-10 fleet through 2030, reversing a previous plan to retire the aircraft by 2029. According to defense reports, this decision was heavily influenced by the A-10’s recent combat performance in Operation Epic Fury, a U.S. campaign against Iran in late March and April 2026, where the aircraft successfully struck naval vessels and provided critical close air support.
AirPro News analysis
The decision to extend the A-10’s service life through 2030 while simultaneously closing its primary heavy maintenance and training facilities presents a unique logistical scenario. The Air Force is utilizing what it calls a “fleet management strategy.” Because the Davis-Monthan engine shop and the pilot “schoolhouse” are now closed, operational squadrons at bases like Moody AFB and Whiteman AFB will be operating on borrowed time. They will have to rely entirely on existing experienced personnel, stockpiled parts, and the durability of engines like the one just completed by the 355th CMS to sustain operations until the final retirement date. This strategy underscores the military’s confidence in the robust engineering of the TF34 engines and the meticulous groundwork laid by aerospace Propulsion Airmen over the past decades.
The Unsung Heroes of Aerospace Propulsion
The longevity and survivability of the A-10 Thunderbolt II are directly tied to the expertise of aerospace propulsion Airmen. These maintainers are responsible for ensuring the aircraft remains lethal and capable of returning pilots home safely, even after taking heavy fire.
Their daily responsibilities include conducting borescope inspections to identify internal engine issues early and prevent catastrophic failures. They also manage test cell operations, running the engines in a controlled environment while monitoring critical readings from a control cab to verify performance before the engine is ever attached to an airframe.
“I think the legacy of the A-10 is going to be remembered for generations. The A-10 will be missed here in Arizona.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What engine does the A-10 Thunderbolt II use?
The A-10 is powered by twin General Electric TF34 turbofan engines. These engines are renowned for their durability and ability to sustain damage while still bringing pilots home safely.
Why is the A-10’s service life being extended to 2030?
Air Force Secretary Troy E. Meink announced the extension on April 20, 2026, following the aircraft’s highly successful combat performance during Operation Epic Fury in early 2026. The extension reverses previous plans to retire the fleet by 2029.
Is Davis-Monthan AFB still training A-10 pilots?
No. The 357th Fighter Squadron at Davis-Monthan graduated its final class of A-10 pilots on April 3, 2026, officially closing the formal training pipeline for the aircraft.
Sources: Air Combat Command
Photo Credit: U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Christopher Ornelas Jr.
Defense & Military
Airbus Explores Helicopter Manufacturing in Canada for Global Export
Airbus SE is evaluating manufacturing helicopters in Canada to support federal defense contracts amid Canada’s $81B defense investment and new industrial strategy.
This article summarizes reporting by Bloomberg and Laura Dhillon Kane. This article summarizes publicly available elements and public remarks.
According to reporting by Bloomberg, Airbus SE is evaluating the potential to manufacture helicopters in Canada for the global export market, provided the European aerospace giant secures upcoming federal procurement contracts. This strategic proposition arrives as Canada embarks on an unprecedented defense spending expansion aimed at modernizing its military and stimulating domestic manufacturing jobs.
We note that Airbus is leveraging a unique political and economic window. By pitching a “local for global” manufacturing approach, the company hopes to decentralize its production while satisfying the Canadian government’s increasingly stringent demands for domestic economic benefits in exchange for lucrative defense contracts.
Canada’s Historic Defense Spending Surge
Following years of underfunding, the Canadian government has recently injected an $81.1 billion multi-year investment into national defense, according to comprehensive industry research. Under the administration of Prime Minister Mark Carney, Canada officially reached the 2% NATO spending benchmark in March 2026 and has committed to escalating defense expenditures to 5% of GDP by 2035.
The 2026 Defence Industrial Strategy
A major catalyst for Airbus’s proposal is the Canadian government’s first-ever Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS), launched in February 2026. Research reports indicate that the DIS introduced a strict “Build-Partner-Buy” framework designed to maximize domestic economic activity. The strategy ambitiously aims to direct 70% of defense contracts to Canadian firms, create 125,000 jobs, and boost defense exports by 50%.
To win contracts under this new framework, foreign vendors are required to provide sustainable domestic economic activity and transfer intellectual property. Furthermore, Canada is actively seeking to diversify its defense procurement to reduce its historical reliance on U.S. suppliers, pivoting toward European partnerships and joining the EU’s €150 billion Security Action for Europe (SAFE) fund.
Airbus’s “Local for Global” Pitch
Airbus is no stranger to the Canadian aerospace sector, having operated in the country for over 40 years. According to industry data, the company currently employs over 5,300 people in Canada. Its helicopter division, based in Fort Erie, Ontario, is already a recognized center of excellence for composite manufacturing, shipping approximately 34,000 parts globally each year to support Airbus’s worldwide supply chain.
Targeting Key Government Contracts
Airbus is actively pursuing three major helicopter procurement projects in Canada: fleet replacements for the Canadian Armed Forces, the Canadian Coast Guard, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). To bolster its position, Transport Canada officially certified the Airbus H175 helicopter in February 2026, a super-medium aircraft tailored for search and rescue and defense missions in harsh environments. Additionally, Airbus is currently delivering 19 H135 helicopters to the Royal Canadian Air Force for the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.
Airbus executives have made it clear that winning these new contracts would justify expanding their Canadian manufacturing base to assemble complete helicopters for the global market.
“Clearly, if Airbus helicopters are selected for any of the big upcoming campaigns and there is an industrial project which is tied to this contract, it’s an opportunity to export what would be manufactured here to the worldwide market.”
“We see that the H175 is very well positioned for several of those ambitions… We really see that as an aircraft for Canada, but… it would also be a helicopter from Canada.”
Balancing Economic Demands with Aerospace Realities
While Airbus is willing to expand its manufacturing footprint, company leadership has cautioned against overly transactional government demands. Michalon noted that while Airbus can offer research, development, and local procurement, there are practical limits to quid-pro-quo arrangements in aerospace manufacturing.
“If you ask us, ‘Can you bring a car plant in exchange for us selecting [an Airbus helicopter]?’ the answer is ‘Probably not, no.'”
AirPro News analysis
We observe that Canada’s deliberate pivot toward European defense partnerships represents a significant geopolitical shift. Historically, over 90% of Canada’s military helicopters and 100% of its fighter aircraft have been sourced from the United States. While diversifying procurement builds sovereign capacity and integrates Canada into European supply chains, defense experts suggest it could introduce interoperability friction with U.S. forces, particularly concerning joint North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) operations.
Furthermore, establishing a Canadian export hub would provide Airbus with much-needed supply chain redundancy. By decentralizing production from its primary plants in France and Germany, Airbus can better insulate itself from European supply chain bottlenecks. Canada’s 2025 entry into the NATO Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) initiative also positions the country as a long-term collaborator alongside European nations to manage the rising development costs of future military rotorcraft.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is Airbus considering building helicopters in Canada?
According to Bloomberg reporting, Airbus is exploring Canadian manufacturing for global export as a strategic incentive to win upcoming federal procurement contracts for the Canadian Armed Forces, Coast Guard, and RCMP.
What is Canada’s current defense spending target?
Under Prime Prime Minister Mark Carney, Canada officially hit the 2% NATO spending benchmark in March 2026 and has committed to reaching 5% of GDP by 2035, backed by an $81.1 billion multi-year investment.
What is the Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS)?
Launched in February 2026, the DIS is a Canadian government framework aiming to direct 70% of defense contracts to domestic firms, create 125,000 jobs, and boost defense exports by 50% by requiring foreign vendors to invest locally.
Sources:
Bloomberg
Provided Industry Research Report
Photo Credit: Airbus
-
Regulations & Safety6 days agoNTSB Urges FAA to Update Runway Condition Assessment Matrix for Heavy Rain
-
Space & Satellites4 days agoFAA Orders SpaceX Investigation After Starship Flight 12 Booster Mishap
-
Space & Satellites4 days agoUS Space Force Awards SpaceX $2.29B Contract for Military Satellite Network
-
Space & Satellites2 days agoBlue Origin’s New Glenn Rocket Explodes During Test at Cape Canaveral
-
Route Development5 days agoHong Kong International Airport Opens Expanded Terminal 2 for Departures