[Belgium National Day] “National Military Parade (Défilé) with Air Component low level pass”

Today, 21 July, Belgium celebrates its National Independence Day. The Theme for 2019 is the 75th Anniversary of the Liberation.

Festivities will take place all over the countries, including many fireworks organised by local authorities.

Brussels will be the primary point of attention as we are expecting a full review of all departments and troops (over 900 personnel), 71 military vehicles, over 25 aircraft including a low level pass of the Air Component. The Military Reserve, the Youth will also represent.

Belgian Defence reports that : “For the occasion, many foreign delegations are paying a visit this week. The two Griffon armoured vehicles of the French detachment will form Sunday the main ‘eye catcher’. These brand new fighting vehicles will make their appearance at La Défense in 2025.“

Last Wednesday July 17th, a rehearsal took place over the Jubilee Park. We could already see some aircraft. We spotted among others the two NH90.

Expected over Brussels are the following aircraft :

• 3 F16’s (10W) proudly displaying our National Colors

[Read our previous post regarding “F-16s take over from Alpha-Jets the mission to spread Belgian colours on 21 July”.]

• 4 F16’s (2W)
• 2 F16’s with the 75th Anniversary marks along with a Spitfire

[Read our previous post regarding “[WWII] 75th Anniversary D-Day – Tribute and Remembrance flight over Belgium (Belgian Air Component)”.]

• 4 Marchetti’s – Our ‘Red Devils’ Dream Team
• Embraer EMB 121 Xingu
• 3 NH90 also displaying proudly our National colours
• 2 A109’s along with an Alouette 3
• 3 C130’s
• Embraer ERJ145
• Airbus A321

Timings provided by the Belgian Defence are subject to change for operational or weather reasons but this is what is planned so far : Fly Over timing :

Further detailed program can be found on the dedicated website “2107.be“.

Don’t miss the usual stunning fireworks which are planned at 11pm !

It is strongly advised to use public transportation to reach your destination. Bear in mind that some roads or public stations might be closed or temporarily closed.

Many lines have seen their closure time extended to 1am on Monday July 22nd. Carefully review all information provided by the “STIB-MIVB” under “National Day”.

We wish you all a cheerful National Day. Thank you to all serving and protecting our country. We are grateful for your commitment and dedication.

Use hashtag #2107 on social media to interact and share your best pictures.

Authors : Benoît Denet – Martin Gillet

Photos Credit : Benoît Denet – Nordine Nakkach – Martin Gillet