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Belgium offers 14 F-16 MLUs to Prague
September 26, 2003 (by
Lieven Dewitte) -
The Belgian government has offered 14 F-16 MLUs (12 F-16AM, 2 F-16BM) with logistical support and equipment for sale to the Czech republic.
This offer fits in the development of cooperation projects and the further expansion of European defence capabilities with new partners like the Czech Republic
The Czech Republic, NATO member since 1999 and future EU member, is looking for 14 used jet fighters, to replace its old Mig-21s.
Belgium has ccurrently a fleet of 90 F-16s (84 A and 6 B models). Rumor goes that they might change the structure to four operational squadrons of 15 planes each. This would leave them with a total of 60 jets plus a reserve of 16 aircraft (90-14= 76). Early 2004, the last four aircaft will be sent to Sabca for their mid-life update update.
Tenders have to arrive in Prague befor the end of Octobre and a decision is foreseen for December. The first aircaft have to be operational in April 2005.
The UK, who recently proposed Tornado F3 has withdrawn its offer, assuming that it would not meet the requirements set by the Czech government. The other countries propose F-16s, US F/A-18s, French Mirage-2000 and Swedish JAS-39 Gripen.
The Czech Republic, NATO member since 1999 and future EU member, is looking for 14 used jet fighters, to replace its old Mig-21s.
Belgium has ccurrently a fleet of 90 F-16s (84 A and 6 B models). Rumor goes that they might change the structure to four operational squadrons of 15 planes each. This would leave them with a total of 60 jets plus a reserve of 16 aircraft (90-14= 76). Early 2004, the last four aircaft will be sent to Sabca for their mid-life update update.
Tenders have to arrive in Prague befor the end of Octobre and a decision is foreseen for December. The first aircaft have to be operational in April 2005.
The UK, who recently proposed Tornado F3 has withdrawn its offer, assuming that it would not meet the requirements set by the Czech government. The other countries propose F-16s, US F/A-18s, French Mirage-2000 and Swedish JAS-39 Gripen.
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- Czech Republic to get loan from US for 14 F-16s? (2003-09-26)
- Czech government to acquire used F-16s? (2003-07-17)
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