BELGIANS SET FOR WELCOME RETURN
An F-16 'Fighting Falcon' from the Belgium Air Component will perform a solo display at this summer's Royal International Air Tattoo.
Pilot Michel Beulen, from 349 Sqn, 10th Tactical Wing based at Kleine Brogel Air Base will demonstrate the aircraft's manoeuvrability and agility. It will be Michel's second year displaying the aircraft at the Air Tattoo.
An Agusta A109BA helicopter from the Heli Wing of the Belgian Air Component based at Beauvechain will also be attending, on static display. The helicopter can be used in a variety of roles including observation, anti-tank, tactical support, armed reconnaissance, medevac or transport.
Aircraft Operations Deputy Director Rob Windsor said: "The Belgians have been strong supporters of the Air Tattoo for many years and their participation always proves popular with our visitors. We are delighted that they will be joining us once again."
Pilots and support personnel from 349 Sqn returned from Kandahar in Afghanistan recently where they had been deployed in support of the NATO ISAF mission. The aircraft were flown in support of ground troops, providing valuable reconnaissance.
349 (Belgian) Squadron was originally an RAF squadron formed by Belgian personnel at Ikeja, Nigeria in 1943. It was disbanded as an RAF squadron in 1946 on transfer to the Belgian Air Force.
