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Belgium: The return of the F-16 and premiere of the Alouette III

The Belgian Air Component confirmed its participation at this year's NATO Days in Ostrava & Czech Air Force Days. After two years, the Belgian F-16AM will be returning, and with it, the Alouette III helicopter, which will be presented for the first time.

Belgium and its Air Component are regular participants at NATO Days. Since 2009, Belgium presented a wide range of its equipment from the helicopter Agusta A109, through the training aircraft SF.260 to transport aircraft C-130 Hercules or fighter aircraft F-16. In addition to F-16AM, visitors can this time look forward to a utility helicopter Alouette III. Both will present themselves at a static display.

"This year's NATO Days collide with other events, which unfortunately affects some dynamic displays. However, we are pleased that the Belgian Air Component has decided to respond with this static contributions, mainly in the form of the unique Alouette III," says Zbyněk Pavlačík, chairman of Jagello 2000. "This helicopter is still being used in many countries. But due to its age, it is considered as a rare guest."

F-16 Fighting Falcon is a single-seat multi-purpose aircraft of the 4th generation. Although the first flight took place in 1974, thanks to many modernizations, it still meets the current requirements and is being produced. However, the Belgian Air Component is already preparing for the transition to more modern machines of the 5th generation - F-35 Lightning II, first pieces are expected to be received in 2023.

Even older is the light utility helicopter Aérospatiale Alouette III. It was put into service in 1960. Thanks to its excellent qualities, it is still being used by the Air Force of France, Belgium or Portugal. Belgium mainly uses it to support the navy and transport people and material between the mainland and ships. It has only appeared once at NATO Days in 2012 in the colours of the Austrian Air Force.

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20^th NATO Days in Ostrava & 11^th Czech Air Force Days!

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