Belgium plans major military expansion with new aircraft, naval vessels, drones

Belgium has outlined plans to significantly expand its armed forces and military capabilities by 2035, according to a new defence strategy published by the Ministry of Defence.

The “Strategic Vision” document, developed under Defence Minister Theo Francken, states that Belgium will purchase an additional 11 F-35 fighter jets for its air force, as well as an anti-submarine frigate and a logistics support ship for its navy. The plan also includes the deployment of dozens of naval and aerial drones, alongside investments in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and space-based reconnaissance systems, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

Under the strategy, the size of Belgium’s armed forces — including military personnel, civil servants, and reservists — will rise from 31,000 to 55,800 by 2035. The role of the armed forces will also shift from supporting overseas missions to preparing for “high-intensity conflict within the framework of NATO collective defence.”

The government plans to allocate €140 billion for defence over the next decade, with €34 billion earmarked for the acquisition of new equipment, including aircraft, ships, and unmanned systems.

By Sabina Mammadli