349 Fighter Squadron

October 24, 2008 - Immediately after GFW, 349 flew out of Davis Monthan AFB, AZ for "CCD 2008". Not being part of a scenario, missions were tailored to the pilots needs, ending up in having the entire squadron combat ready day & night and fully TGP qualified. Live bombs such as Mk82 & GBU-12 were dropped, controlled by both Belgian and US JTAC's. Weather and mechanic personel were both outstanding, resulting in not a single cancellation of flight!

October 9, 2008 -  This year, 6 sqn pilots, together with pilots from 31 & 1 sqn were participating at GFW, Nellis AFB, Las Vegas. The meat of the exercise was practising CAS procedures as well as improving the cooperation between Belgian F-16s and US A-10s. Needless to say, the exercise was really helpful for both parties. The missions included typical scenario's such as armed overwatch, convoy escort/protection, show of force, XCAS, live bombing,... Once again, the F-16 proved itself to be a modern, potent weapon, ready for any planned (or unplanned) mission.

June 2, 2008 - 349 sqn moved to Solenzara, Corsica for the annual squadron move. During this week, the pilots were training CAS with the new sniper pod. Secondly, the art of air to air firing was fine tuned. This was an historic occasion as this might have been the last time that the BAC organized such a campaign. As a memory, the last 'Secapem' was brought back and put up in the bar.

August 28, 2008 - Commanding Officer (C.O.) Pascal ‘Scalle’ July has said goodbye to the squadron. A formation flight was planned to give the Major a well earned last salute of 349.

After the change of command ceremony, Major Frank Vandenbussche took over the command of 349 squadron for a two-year assignment.