2026-06-08

Belgium deploys F-16s to Norway for NATO exercise Ramstein Flag 26

From June 3 to June 19, 2026, the Belgian Air Force is participating in the NATO exercise Ramstein Flag 26, which is organized as part of the multidomain activity Arctic Sentry (ARSN). Belgium is deploying F-16s as well as a support detachment to Norway.
This participation is part of Defence’s commitment to maintaining a high level of operational readiness and continuing to train its crews in a realistic, demanding, and multinational environment. For the Belgian Air Force, this type of exercise is essential: it allows for training in planning, coordinating, and executing operations with numerous partners, in a context where speed of execution, information exchange, and interoperability are crucial.
Ramstein Flag 26 is a large-scale exercise aimed at strengthening the Alliance's deterrence and collective defense (Deter and Defend). The focus is primarily on three priorities: the ability to operate in contested environments, integrated air and missile defense, and the flexible deployment of air forces. The goal is clear: to enable allied forces to train together in complex conditions and to respond rapidly, in a coordinated manner, and effectively if necessary.
The 2026 edition marks an important milestone, as it is the third edition of the exercise since its inception in 2024 and the first to be led entirely autonomously by NATO’s Allied Air Command (AIRCOM). Operations are taking place simultaneously in Northern and Southern Europe, at more than twenty operational locations, with the participation of eighteen countries. In the north, activities are taking place over Finland, Norway, Sweden, and international airspace, among others. In the south, they are occurring over Spain and adjacent international zones.
For Belgium, this deployment represents a concrete contribution to Arctic Sentry, which aims to strengthen vigilance and allied coordination in the Arctic region and the High North. It also offers the opportunity to draw lessons from recent NATO vigilance activities and to further adapt tactics, techniques, and procedures to evolving threats.
In addition to the 10th Tactical Wing, various Belgian support units are also participating in the deployment, including the 2nd Tactical Wing, the 14th Medical Battalion, the Field Accommodation Unit, and the Control and Reporting Centre. Their contribution is essential for the smooth conduct of the mission and highlights the comprehensive nature of the Belgian engagement in this exercise.
Through its participation in Ramstein Flag 26, Belgium confirms its commitment within NATO, its solidarity with allies, and its willingness to actively contribute to collective security.

Info and images: Belgian MOD, Allied Air NATO Allied Air Command Please note that the included photos are for illustrative purposes only.
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Source: Aviation Day.