2026-06-03

15th Wing Air Transport achieves highest NATO certification: Full Operational Capability

The 15th Wing Air Transport of the Belgian Air Force has successfully completed an intensive NATO evaluation (NATEVAL). The unit is now officially certified as ‘Full Operational Capability’ (FOC), confirming that it fully meets the alliance’s stringent international standards.
During the first two weeks of May, the 15th Wing underwent a comprehensive capability assessment at Koksijde Air Base. In a simulated environment, the unit’s operational readiness and ability to operate in complex, international scenarios were rigorously tested.
Achieving FOC status is a milestone for Belgian Defence. It means that the 15th Wing possesses not only the right equipment but also the trained crews, technicians, and support staff to work completely autonomously and seamlessly with other NATO partners.
“This certification is the result of months of preparation and the tireless dedication of all our staff,” the 15th Wing stated. “It confirms that we are ready to carry out our logistics and transport missions at any time and in any environment, anywhere in the world where NATO needs us.”
The choice of Koksijde Air Base as the location for the exercise was intentional. By conducting operations outside the familiar home base of Melsbroek, the Wing’s ability to "deploy" quickly and efficiently to an unfamiliar location was tested in detail. The evaluators assessed the unit on critical components such as command and control, logistics maintenance, and operational readiness in real-world scenarios.
With the FOC status secured, the 15th Wing reinforces its position as an indispensable link in NATO’s international transport capability. This recognition underscores the high level of professionalism and operational reliability of the Belgian Air Force.

Info and images: Belgian Defence, Belgian AIr Force and 15 Wing, Adjt Kristof Moens

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Source: Aviation Day