Here is why Belgium will deploy four F-16s and 100 soldiers in Iceland

For the first time. However, Belgium deploys F-16 in Iceland as part of the NATO mission “Icelandic Air Policing”. Moreover, &#13. However,

Belgium deploys four F-16s and 100 soldiers in Iceland, as part of a air space surveillance under the aegis of NATO. Consequently, The four aircraft are parked on Keflavik air base, the Minister of Defense’s office announces on Friday.

The Nordic country is the only member of NATO not to have an army. However. it represents a strategic point for the Atlantic Alliance, due to its geographic position halfway between Europe and North America. The Belgian deployment is part of NATO’s “Icelandic Air Policing” mission.

Belgian devices will be responsible for monitoring the northern road, which runs along Iceland and Greenland. This area is borrowed by Russian bombers to go to Western Europe.

“Iceland does not have an air force. This is why the allies take turns to ensure air surveillance, “said Defense Minister Theo Francken. “Belgian F-16s should be ready to take off in 15 minutes in the event of a threat. »»

It is the first time that here why belgium will deploy Belgium has participated in this mission of surveillance of Icelandic airspace. The Belgian air force is however used to this kind of mission. since it has been watching the security of the heavens of the Baltic countries for over 20 years.

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This deployment also offers an excellent opportunity to refine cooperation and procedures with other NATO member states, said the Ministry of Defense.

Theo Francken specifies, however, that this operation is much more than a training mission. “Our message to Moscow is clear. Those who put our borders or those of our allies to the test, will see that we are ready. »»

The Belgian detachment has been present since August 14 and will continue its mission until September 15.