Class 22 locomotives, initially designated as Type 122, were part of a 1950s generation of electric locomotives operated by the National Railway Company of Belgium. This generation included various classes such as Type 123 (later Class 23) and Type 125 (later Class 25 and 25.5), all built between 1953 and 1961. Class 22 was originally numbered 122.001 to 122.050 before the renumbering system introduced in 1971.

The locomotives were known for their versatility and reliability, being used on both passenger and freight services throughout Belgium. Although the Class 22 shared the same electric motors and control equipment as other 1950s locomotives, a subset of the fleet was equipped with dual-voltage capability (1,500 and 3,000 V DC), allowing them to operate on both Belgian and Dutch railways. These units were renumbered to 122.201-122.212 and fitted with a third headlight for cross-border operations.

In 1958, one locomotive, 122.038, was specially renumbered and displayed at the Brussels Expo, although it did not enter regular service with that number. Another unit, 2202, was fitted with experimental ventilation grilles, but no other locomotives received similar modifications.

Despite their age, Class 22 locomotives continued to serve in peak-hour passenger services and banking duties until their retirement in 2009, after 56 years in service. Many locomotives were still operational at the time of their withdrawal, with one unit, 2201, preserved by the PFT-TSP railway preservation group.  

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