Belgium’s Enhanced Defense Strategy: A Response to Evolving Threats

Belgium is poised to significantly transform its military capabilities as part of a new defense strategy aiming to address longstanding deficiencies. The Belgian government is set to make substantial investments in advanced military hardware and workforce expansion, signaling a serious commitment to enhancing national and NATO defense posture.

Strategic Realignment and Investment

In an ambitious move, Belgium plans to procure additional F-35 fighter jets, a third anti-submarine warfare frigate, and allocate substantial funds toward comprehensive air defense systems, all as part of its updated defense strategy, “Strategic Vision 2025.” This strategic framework, outlined in a detailed report authored by Defense Minister Theo Francken, emphasizes the necessity for Belgium to shift its military focus from expeditionary operations to high-intensity conflict preparedness.

Key Highlights from the Strategic Vision 2025:

• Commitment to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP by 2025, translating to a defense budget of €12.8 billion (approximately $14.9 billion).
• A planned increase in military personnel by nearly one-third by 2034, aiming for 34,500 troops from 26,200.
• An investment commitment of €34.8 billion for military capacity enhancements from 2026 to 2034, with a portion earmarked for immediate hardware acquisitions.

Alignment with NATO and Regional Defense

Minister Francken emphasized that Belgium’s security hinges on aligning with robust NATO allies and demonstrating solidarity in collective defense initiatives. “The only way to ensure our freedom and sovereignty is through commitment and partnership with our allies,” he articulated, echoing the sentiment that a unified front is essential in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.

Prioritized Defense Initiatives

Belgium’s strategy prioritizes key areas that have suffered from years of underfunding, including:

• Full operational status for the medium motorized brigade.
• Development of layered air defense capabilities to counter advanced threats like drones and hypersonic missiles.
• Expansion of ammunition stocks to ensure rapid response and elevated readiness.

Tactical Enhancements and Future Acquisitions

Among the notable procurements, Belgium will invest €1.67 billion for an additional 11 F-35A fighters, bolstering its air combat capabilities. The need for a formidable air force is underscored by lessons learned from contemporary conflicts, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine, highlighting airpower’s critical role in preventing military stalemates.

Air Defense and Infrastructure Protection

Belgium currently has no ground-based missile defense systems, and plans are underway to acquire ten NASAMS (National/Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems) from Kongsberg for €2 billion, with orders slated for 2026. This acquisition is the first step toward establishing a robust air defense network with a specific focus on protecting vital infrastructure—such as NATO’s Brussels headquarters and Antwerp, the second-busiest port in Europe.

The government also plans to invest a further €2 billion in three long-range air-defense systems, ensuring interoperability with the Netherlands’ air defense capabilities, particularly the U.S. Patriot systems.

Naval and Ground Forces Expansion

The Belgian naval fleet will also see enhancements, including the purchase of a third anti-submarine warfare frigate for €1.3 billion, complementing existing orders alongside the Netherlands. Additionally, plans include acquiring a third MQ-9B SkyGuardian drone, a move that reflects the need for improved reconnaissance and operational flexibility in maritime operations.

On land, a budget of €13.9 billion is allocated for motorized capabilities, which will support NATO initiatives by providing a robust motorized brigade with approximately 7,800 troops and 2,700 vehicles by 2030.

Future Readiness and Strategic Autonomy

Belgium’s defense strategy recognizes the unprecedented threat landscape, suggesting that the current geopolitical climate poses a greater risk than during the Cold War. The strategy report warns that an end to the conflict in Ukraine could embolden hostile actions from Russia against NATO member states, potentially testing the alliance’s unity.

In light of this, the Belgian government proposes expanding its reserve forces five-fold by the end of the planning period and launching a voluntary military service program for young adults in 2026.

Conclusion

As Belgium positions itself for the future, the emphasis will be on increasing both the quality and quantity of military personnel and capabilities. With defense spending projected to rise to €21.3 billion by 2034 and a robust commitment to NATO, Belgium aims to secure a credible and capable military posture that resonates with its cooperative obligations in European security. This transformation not only fills existing capability gaps but also strengthens Belgium’s role in collective defense efforts amid evolving global threats.