The roots of the 31 Tiger Squadron reach back to October 1, 1951, when the unit was first established at Beauvechain Air Base as part of the newly formed 10th Tactical Wing. Soon after, the Wing moved to Chièvres Air Base, where the squadron recorded its first missions on the legendary Spitfire Mk XIV. Although the Spitfire era was short-lived, it marked the beginning of a long and remarkable journey.
In 1953 the squadron transitioned to the Lockheed T 33 and the F 84G Thunderjet, marking the start of Belgium’s early jet age. In February 1955, the unit settled at Kleine-Brogel Air Base, where it remains based to this day. A year later, the Thunderjet was replaced by the more powerful F 84F Thunderstreak, on which over 37,000 flying hours were accumulated.
A defining moment came in 1962 when the squadron participated in its first NATO Tiger Meet at RAF Woodbridge. This event established the foundation of its Tiger identity, which would become central to its culture, traditions, and international reputation.
In 1964 the squadron converted to the F 104G Starfighter, playing an important role during the Cold War as part of NATO’s strike forces. Almost two decades later, in 1983, the unit transitioned to the F 16 Fighting Falcon, an aircraft that would elevate the squadron into the modern era of multirole air combat.
From the late 1990s onward, the 31 Tiger Squadron took part in multiple international operations. Missions over Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Libya, Iraq, and Syria demonstrated their readiness, precision, and commitment. The integration of advanced avionics and precision-guided munitions further enhanced their capabilities, establishing the squadron as a respected partner within NATO.
Their excellence has been recognized repeatedly, highlighted by multiple victories of the prestigious Silver Tiger Award, including a record-breaking ninth win in 2016.
Today, the 31 Tiger Squadron continues to operate at the forefront of Belgian air power, proudly flying the F 16 and carrying forward a legacy built on courage, professionalism, and international camaraderie.
Throughout the years, the squadron has developed a close relationship with the Sanicole Airshow. Two of the squadron’s godfathers are part of the steering committee behind the Sanicole Airshow.
Credits: 10W Tac Kleine-Brogel Airbase PR-TEAM
