A 5TH GENERATION FIGHTER FOR BELGIUM:LUXURY OR NECESSITY
Abstract
The Belgian Government has decided to replace the F-16. Although political factors like international cooperation, economic return on investment and life cycle cost are seen as driving decision points1, it also poses the great challenge to correctly identify the technological requirements for a future fighter platform which has to deliver responsive and effective airpower in the anticipated environment of 2035. We face a moment in time where these choices will likely define our relevance in future operations. How ambitious and relevant does Belgium want to be in the volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous future battle space? What will be the mission of the Belgian Air Component in 2035? How will it conduct its mission as part of a joint, interagency, or multinational force, or independently in support of national objectives? Therefore, do we require investing in top notch technology? Is a 5th generation fighter for Belgium a necessity or a luxury? Through the analyses of the future security and operating environment and the assessment of the capability requirements, this paper recommends Belgium invest in this technology.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 16, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1037106
Entities
People
- Patrik De Groot
Organizations
- Air War College