Belgium Pushes for Hefty Domestic Industrial Returns in F-35 Deal with Lockheed Martin

Belgium is seeking additional F-35A fighter jets as part of discussions with Lockheed Martin, Breaking Defense reports. Brussels is pushing for significant domestic industrial returns, including production at Cameri Air Base in northern Italy. The country’s defense minister wants to make the F-35 as European as possible, citing opportunities for local supply chain financial gains. Safran Aero Boosters will produce components of the F135 engine indigenously, while BMT Aerospace will collaborate on innovative manufacturing concepts. The deal is expected to be signed this year.