Belgian and RNLAF F-16s Go Dutch Supporting Iraqi Forces

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A Belgian air force F-16 dropped a GPS-guided bomb in support of Iraqi forces Oct. 5. It was the first time Belgium used munitions against Islamic State forces.

Belgian Defense photo by Malek Azoug

The bomb was delivered by one of a pair of Belgian F-16s conducting armed reconnaissance east of Baghdad. In addition to guided bombs, the aircraft were equipped with sniper targeting pods.

The first such mission since six Belgian F-16s deployed to Azraq, Jordan, Sept. 27 was conducted Oct. 1.

Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) F-16s conducted their first reconnaissance mission over Iraq Oct. 5, after Belgian technicians introduced the necessary cryptographic codes in the Dutch aircraft systems. The RNLAF detachment of eight F-16s, including two reserve aircraft, was due to reach full strength in Azraq Oct. 6.

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