March 19, 2026 (by F-16.net) - The Belgian Air Force has begun testing a new counter-drone capability by equipping its F-16AM Fighting Falcons with laser-guided 70 mm rockets, reflecting the growing urgency to address the threat posed by low-cost unmanned aerial systems.
According to recent reports, Belgian F-16s have been trialing the FZ275 laser-guided rocket (LGR), a precision-guided munition developed by Thales Belgium. The tests are part of a broader effort to explore cost-effective solutions for countering small and inexpensive attack drones, which have proven highly disruptive in recent conflicts.

A cost-effective response to a growing threat
The Belgian Ministry of Defence highlighted that modern battlefields have demonstrated how relatively cheap drones can inflict disproportionate damage. Using traditional air defense systems or high-end air-to-air missiles against such targets is often economically inefficient.

By contrast, laser-guided 70 mm rockets offer a significantly lower-cost alternative while still providing precision engagement capability. The FZ275 LGR is designed to convert standard unguided rockets into accurate, laser-guided weapons with a range of several kilometers and high hit probability.

F-16 integration and test configuration
Images released earlier in March showed a Belgian F-16AM configured with multiple LAU-131 rocket launchers, capable of carrying several 70 mm rockets per pod. This setup allows a single aircraft to engage multiple drone targets during a sortie, increasing its effectiveness in counter-UAS missions.

The trials reportedly focus on evaluating how well the rockets can be integrated into existing F-16 targeting systems and how effectively they can engage small, maneuverable aerial targets.

Part of a broader counter-UAS effort
The testing comes as Belgium accelerates its investment in counter-drone capabilities. The country recently launched a tender for a long-term counter-UAS solution, underlining the strategic importance of defending against unmanned threats.

The FZ275 is also gaining attention beyond Belgium. Earlier in 2026, the rocket was successfully tested as part of the U.S.-developed VAMPIRE counter-drone system, demonstrating its flexibility across different platforms.

Looking ahead
While still in the evaluation phase, the integration of laser-guided rockets on Belgian F-16s highlights a broader trend among air forces seeking scalable and affordable solutions to counter drone swarms.

If adopted operationally, the concept could provide a valuable bridge capability as Belgium transitions from its F-16 fleet to the F-35, ensuring continued relevance in modern, drone-heavy conflict environments.

March 20, 2026 (by Lieven Dewitte) - The United States has approved a major weapons package for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aimed at enhancing the combat capabilities of its F-16 fleet. The combined value of the two approved packages is estimated at $1.86 billion.
Announced on March 19, 2026, the approval covers both air-to-air missiles and precision-guided munitions for the UAE Air Force and Air Defence (AFAD), which operates the advanced F-16E/F block 60 “Desert Falcon”.

According to the U.S. Department of State, the sale was authorized under an emergency determination, allowing the process to move forward without the standard congressional review period.

Air-to-air capability boost
The first package, valued at approximately $1.22 billion, includes up to 400 AIM-120C-7 or AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles. These beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles significantly enhance the F-16’s ability to engage multiple aerial threats at extended distances and in contested environments.

The package also includes associated support equipment, spare parts, and logistical services required to sustain operations.

Precision strike enhancements
A second package, worth an estimated $644 million, focuses on air-to-ground capabilities. It includes:

• 1,500 GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bombs (SDB I);
• 900 KMU-556 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) and
• 300 KMU-557 JDAM guidance sets.

These systems provide the UAE’s F-16s with highly accurate, all-weather strike capabilities against a wide range of targets. The package also includes elements of the Joint Mission Planning System, enabling improved mission preparation and weapons integration.

Supporting the Desert Falcon fleet
The UAE operates 78 F-16E/F Block 60 aircraft, one of the most advanced F-16 variants ever produced. The “Desert Falcon” is equipped with the AN/APG-80 AESA radar, conformal fuel tanks, and advanced electronic warfare systems, making it a highly capable multirole platform.

The newly approved munitions are expected to complement these capabilities, ensuring the fleet remains fully equipped for both air superiority and precision strike missions.

No timeline has been disclosed for the delivery of the weapons. The U.S. Secretary of State determined that an emergency exists requiring the immediate sale in the interest of national security, thereby waiving the standard Congressional review requirements.

In addition to its F-16 fleet, the UAE also operates Mirage 2000-9 fighters and has ordered 80 Dassault Rafale aircraft, which are expected to enter service in the coming years. Until then, the F-16E/F fleet continues to serve as a central pillar of the country’s airpower.