The US Air Force will be well represented at the BAFDAYS, with an exceptional fly‑by of several US F‑35As on Sunday only. On this occasion, these aircraft will perform a fly‑by over Florennes Air Base, offering the public a unique and spectacular experience.

You will have the opportunity to admire the F‑35As of the 493rd Fighter Squadron “Grim Reapers”, based at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom. They have been operating the F‑35A since September 2021, after flying the F‑15C for many years.

The 48th Fighter Wing, also known as the “Liberty Wing,” includes nearly 7,000 military personnel, British and U.S. civilians, and more than 11,000 family members spread across RAF Lakenheath and RAF Feltwell in the United Kingdom. It is the largest U.S. fighter wing in Europe, operating four fully combat-ready squadrons equipped with F‑15 Strike Eagle and F‑35A Lightning II aircraft. Its nickname, the “Statue of Liberty Wing,” dates back to June 1954 when it was stationed in Chaumont, France, making it the only U.S. Air Force wing to be both numbered and officially named.

These are the same type of aircraft acquired by Belgium and currently in service at Florennes Air Base, highlighting the coherence and interoperability within allied air forces.