Belgium is set to procure additional F-35 fighter jets, local media reported, citing sources within the government.
This decision comes as the country prepares to receive its first batch of 34 previously ordered F-35s, which will gradually replace its aging fleet of approximately 50 F-16s, many of which have been pledged to Ukraine.
The Belgian government has significantly accelerated its defense spending commitments, announcing earlier this month that it would reach the NATO target of allocating two percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to defense by the end of 2024.
This marks a major shift from earlier plans, which projected achieving this goal only after five years. The move aligns Belgium with key NATO allies that have long met or exceeded this spending benchmark.
Modernizing the Belgian Armed Forces
The increased budget will allow the Belgian armed forces to expand their capabilities across multiple domains.
While an official breakdown of the additional military acquisitions is yet to be published, reports suggest the funds will be allocated toward key defense priorities, including:
- Ammunition for personal weapons and anti-tank systems
- Armored vehicles and explosive ordnance
- Missiles for the air force and navy
- Drones for various military branches
- Electronic warfare equipment
- Additional military transport aircraft and combat helicopters
- Comprehensive air defense systems
According to defense analysts, Belgium’s primary focus in the medium term will be on strengthening its air defense capabilities, ensuring that its armed forces are better equipped to counter emerging threats in an increasingly unstable global security landscape.
A Significant Increase in Defense Expenditure
Belgium has historically lagged behind NATO’s defense spending targets. In 2023, the country allocated only 1.31 percent of its GDP to defense, amounting to approximately €8 billion.
However, the government has committed to a significant ramp-up in expenditure, planning to inject over €17 billion into defense by 2029.
With the additional investment, Belgium aims to not only enhance its domestic security but also bolster its contributions to NATO operations.
The decision to accelerate defense spending has been influenced by the ongoing war in Ukraine, heightened tensions in Europe, and growing calls from NATO leadership for member states to meet their financial commitments to collective defense.
Strategic Implications for Belgium and NATO
The acquisition of additional F-35s reinforces Belgium’s commitment to modernizing its air force. The F-35, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, provides enhanced capabilities in reconnaissance, air superiority, and ground attack missions.
Belgium’s transition from the F-16 to the F-35 represents a generational leap in combat effectiveness, aligning the country’s air force with NATO’s broader strategic vision.
Furthermore, Belgium’s decision to allocate additional military aid to Ukraine, including surplus F-16s, highlights its support for Kyiv amid the ongoing conflict.
While the exact timeline for these deliveries remains unclear, Belgium’s defense posture reflects its alignment with broader European and NATO security initiatives.
As Belgium takes decisive steps toward strengthening its armed forces, the country is set to play a more active role in regional and global security affairs, reinforcing its position as a committed NATO ally.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
