1 Wing

24/09/2026

✈️🚁 Throwback Thursday: Beauvechain's Aviators, Generations of Flight

For generations, the aviators of Beauvechain have helped shape the history of Belgian military aviation. Heirs to the legendary 349 and 350 Squadrons, which served alongside the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, they have contributed to the defence of our country, the protection of NATO airspace, and numerous missions in support of the population.

From the Spitfire to the F-16, through the A109 and the NH90, and soon the H145M, the aircraft may change, but the commitment remains the same.

Behind every cockpit are women and men driven by an extraordinary calling, marked by dedication, discipline, and the constant pursuit of excellence. Day and night, they stand ready to defend our territory, assist those in need, and answer the call whenever duty requires.

Today, we pay tribute to the pilots of yesterday, today, and tomorrow, whose courage, professionalism, and spirit of service have made Beauvechain proud for more than 80 years. ✈️🚁

23/09/2026

Service Year: Rise to the challenge.

21/09/2026

Today, we honor the memory of 1st Sgt-Pilot Jürgen Fraussen, who fell in service during the mission in Somalia in 1993. We will never forget his dedication and sacrifice.

20/09/2026

✈️ 80 years ago, a legend took to the skies. The Supermarine Spitfire became a symbol of innovation, performance and courage, leaving a lasting mark on aviation history. After World War II, it also served with the Belgian Air Force, including the 349 and 350 Squadrons based at Beauvechain.

Today, its legacy continues to inspire pilots and aviation enthusiasts around the world. Happy 80th anniversary to the Spitfire, a true legend that is also part of Beauvechain's history. 🛩️

17/09/2026

✈️ Throwback Thursday: The Aircraft That Shaped Beauvechain's History

For decades, Beauvechain Air Base has reflected the evolution of Belgian military aviation, from propeller-driven aircraft to modern multi-role fighter jets.

After World War II, the legendary Spitfire became a symbol of the rebirth of the Belgian Air Force. It helped train a new generation of pilots while carrying out air defence and fighter missions.

The arrival of the Meteor, Belgium's first jet aircraft, marked the beginning of the jet age at Beauvechain. It was followed by the Hunter, which brought greater speed, performance and operational capabilities.

During the Cold War, the F-104G became one of the symbols of the 1st Wing. As part of NATO's air defence system, this supersonic aircraft represented Belgium's commitment to collective defence.

From the late 1970s onwards, the F-16 carried on this legacy with its versatility, advanced technology and operational effectiveness. It remains one of the most iconic aircraft in Belgian military aviation.

But Beauvechain's story is not only about fighter aircraft. The air base has also played a key role in training Belgian military pilots.

The SV-4 introduced generations of student pilots to flying, while the Marchetti became a symbol of military flight training in Belgium and at Beauvechain.

From the Spitfire to the F-16, including the Meteor, Hunter, F-104G, SV-4 and Marchetti, each of these aircraft has helped shape the history of Beauvechain and Belgian military aviation.

12/09/2026

1 Wing 🤝 Sanicole Airshow

10/09/2026

🚁 Throwback Thursday: The helicopters that shaped Beauvechain’s history🚁

For decades, Beauvechain Air Base has been at the heart of the Belgian Defence helicopter capability. Three aircraft have particularly marked this journey: the A109, the NH90, and today, the H145M.

The A109 was the trusted companion of several generations of aircrew. Since the 1990s, this light, fast, and versatile helicopter has carried out countless training, transport, and support missions, becoming a true icon of Beauvechain.

The arrival of the NH90 marked the beginning of a new era. Larger and more powerful, it enabled tactical transport, medical evacuation, and operational support missions, both in Belgium and abroad. Its introduction represented a major step forward in the modernization of Belgian Defence’s air capabilities.

Today, the H145M is writing the next chapter of this story. Modern, flexible, and equipped with the latest technologies, it is gradually taking over to meet the operational challenges of tomorrow. Its arrival at Beauvechain confirms the base’s central role in the future of Belgian military helicopters.

Three generations of helicopters, one mission: to serve, protect, and stand ready to respond wherever Belgium needs them.

09/09/2026

A unique challenge, a year of growth, and a first step into military life. 🫡

Want to discover how these young men and women are starting their military service year in the Belgian Air Force?

See more below...👇

De eerste kandidaten van het militair dienstjaar bij de luchtmacht in Bevekom zijn eraan begonnen. Onder hen ook tien Limburgers. “Het voelt als een eerste schooldag, maar met meer stress.”

05/09/2026

Read more about our Change of Command in the article below 👇

Le colonel aviateur Mike Depreitere succède au colonel aviateur David Dupuis dont le mandat de trois ans à la tête du 1er Wing s'est achevé.

05/09/2026

We would like to thank Colonel Dupuis for his commitment and dedication, and wish Colonel Depreitere every success in his new role. 🫡

Congratulations to both of them on this important milestone in their careers. 👏