• Belgium is pushing for hefty domestic industrial returns in a potential deal covering 11 additional F-35A fighter jets.
• The country's defense minister wants to make the F-35 as European as possible.
• Safran Aero Boosters will indigenously produce components of the F135 engine for the fighter jet.
• Belgium had received 11 units from the first acquisition, including eight based at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.

This development may indicate Belgium's desire to strengthen its local defense industry and reduce dependence on US suppliers. The focus on European production could also suggest a shift in NATO's industrial strategy. However, potential cost increases for the F-35 jets remain a concern.