ANNIVERSARY
A remarkable milestone that we are proud to highlight during the Sanicole Airshow. For decades, the Belgian Air Force has been the Sanicole Airshow’s most loyal partner, and its history, expertise, and people are inseparably linked to the passion for aviation that our event embodies.
Founded on 15 October 1946, the Belgian Air Force builds upon a rich heritage that took shape during the Second World War. Belgian pilots earned an outstanding reputation within the Royal Air Force, particularly in the legendary No. 349 and No. 350 Squadrons. This legacy of professionalism, discipline, and international cooperation continues to form the foundation of the Air Force today.
The post-war years brought a period of rapid modernization. The introduction of jet aircraft such as the Gloster Meteor ushered in a new era and marked Belgium’s integration into the NATO defence system. Operational bases such as Kleine-Brogel, Florennes, and Beauvechain became cornerstones of Belgium’s air power capability.
Today, the Air Force comprises nearly 5,700 women and men across more than 80 specialisations. With F-16s and the new F-35s, A400M transport aircraft, NH90 and H145M helicopters, and advanced unmanned systems, the Air Force stands ready every day to safeguard national airspace, provide humanitarian assistance, support international operations, and contribute to national security.
During the Sanicole Airshow, this milestone will be celebrated not only in the skies through spectacular flying displays, but also on the ground. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet the people behind the uniforms, discover the equipment, and gain insight into the versatility and capabilities of the Belgian Air Force.
Hawaii - 7 December1941
The second main theme of the International Sanicole Airshow 2026 marks the 85th anniversary of the Japanese attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on 7 December 1941—an event that drew the United States into World War II against the Axis powers.
To commemorate this anniversary, visitors will have the opportunity to discover one of the most iconic aviation symbols of the Second World War, an aircraft whose nickname became synonymous with all aircraft from its homeland: the legendary Mitsubishi A6M Zero.
Graceful, agile, and formidable, the A6M2 “Zero” earned a reputation as one of the most feared fighter aircraft of its era. Designed as a long-range carrier-based fighter, it dominated the skies with exceptional manoeuvrability and speed. Among its pilots, it was known as the Reisen (“Zero Fighter”), while the Allies referred to it by the reporting name “Zeke.” Entering service in 1940, it quickly became the backbone of the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service until the end of the war in 1945. Behind its elegant appearance, however, lay a significant compromise: minimal armour protection, leaving pilots highly vulnerable in combat. The designation “Zero” derives from the last digit of the Imperial year 2600 (1940), the year the aircraft entered service.
At Sanicole, visitors will witness a remarkable spectacle: a stunningly recreated Zero, brought to life from a modified Harvard aircraft and presented by the renowned collection of La Ferté-Alais. This exceptional warbird will take part in a special aerial performance recreating the dramatic opening moments of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
75th Anniversary
The history of the 31 Tiger Squadron began on 1 October 1951, when the unit was established at Beauvechain Air Base as part of the newly formed 10th Tactical Wing. Shortly thereafter, the entire Wing relocated to Chièvres Air Base, where the squadron flew its first missions with the iconic Spitfire Mk XIV. Although this period was relatively brief, it laid the foundations for a long and distinguished squadron tradition.
In 1953, the squadron transitioned to the Lockheed T-33 and the F-84G Thunderjet, embodying Belgium’s entry into the jet age. In February 1955, the squadron permanently moved to Kleine-Brogel Air Base, where it remains based to this day. One year later, the more powerful F-84F Thunderstreak was introduced, on which the squadron accumulated more than 37,000 flying hours.
A significant milestone followed in 1962 when the squadron took part in its first NATO Tiger Meet at RAF Woodbridge. This participation marked the beginning of the Tiger identity that has since become deeply intertwined with the squadron’s culture and reputation.
In 1964, the squadron converted to the F-104G Starfighter and assumed an important role within NATO forces during the Cold War. A new chapter began in 1983 with the arrival of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, providing the squadron with the capabilities of a modern multirole combat aircraft.
From the late 1990s onwards, the squadron participated in a wide range of international operations. Missions over Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Libya, Iraq, and Syria demonstrated its readiness, precision, and commitment. The introduction of advanced avionics and precision-guided weapons further enhanced its operational capabilities.
These exceptional achievements have been recognised on numerous occasions, culminating in a record-breaking ninth victory in the prestigious Silver Tiger Award competition in 2016.
Today, the 31 Tiger Squadron remains a benchmark of excellence within the Belgian Air Force, proudly operating the F-16 and staying true to its rich tradition of professionalism, courage, and international cooperation.
