A political storm is brewing in Belgium over the arrival of U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets. The aircraft, once hailed as a major step in modernizing the country’s air force, are now being criticized for their high operating costs, excessive noise, and questionable suitability for a small nation. The French outlet 20minutes reports growing discontent around the purchase.

The debate intensified after Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken addressed the federal parliament, acknowledging that Belgium’s limited airspace makes it impossible to conduct regular training flights. The country will need to negotiate with France, Italy, and the Netherlands for shared use of their skies. According to 20minutes, «Belgium has become the butt of online jokes for having a sky too small for its F-35s».

Noise pollution has emerged as another major concern. The new jets are said to be five times louder than their predecessors, raising fears of severe discomfort among residents living near air bases. The defense ministry distributed leaflets explaining that the F-35’s engine is nearly twice as powerful as that of the F-16, producing a deeper and more pulsating roar.

The financial burden adds to the controversy. Each hour of flight time reportedly costs around €50,000, making the F-35 one of the most expensive fighter jets to operate. The report suggests that such costs will inevitably limit the frequency of its missions.

Belgium signed a contract in 2018 to purchase 34 °F-35s for just over €5.5 billion. So far, only four of them have been delivered.