Belgium’s purchase of F-35 jets has ignited debate across Europe, highlighting tensions between NATO reliance and ambitions for European defence autonomy amid rising security concerns and capability shortages
Belgium will strengthen its defence capabilities with NASAMS systems expected in 2027, supported by early leasing and new Skyranger units as the government weighs major long-range air defence choices
Belgium is grappling with a growing series of mystery drone incidents targeting sensitive locations, triggering national security alerts, halting flights, and drawing NATO assistance as authorities investigate possible links to Russian hybrid interference amid EU debates over frozen Russian assets
Theo Francken cancelled a planned air demonstration at Melsbroek involving an F-35 and drone after learning it would shut Brussels Airport for 15 minutes, prompting backlash from Vlaams Belang over costs and potential disruption to air traffic
Belgium has taken a significant step to modernise its defence forces, approving a series of acquisitions designed to upgrade both its naval and land-based...
