Belgium’s air defence deficiencies, reliance on F-16s raises NATO concerns

Belgium is facing significant air defence challenges, Roger Hausen, a retired colonel and national security expert said.

Hausen has criticized the Belgian Armed Forces for its heavy reliance on F-16 fighter jets due to a shortage of ground-based air defence systems, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Hausen's remarks highlight Belgium's vulnerability to modern aerial threats, given its current lack of sufficient air defence capabilities. This issue is particularly concerning for NATO, as Belgium hosts critical infrastructure for the alliance.

In the event of a major conflict, such as a confrontation with Russia, Belgium’s strategic role as a logistics hub—especially through the Antwerp seaport—could make it a target for Russian air strikes. Antwerp, as Europe’s second-largest seaport, could face significant risks from potential Russian attacks.

The deficiency in air defence systems is a persistent issue in Belgium, with both politicians and the public divided on the urgency of addressing it. Bart De Wever, a prominent political figure and potential future prime minister, has stressed the critical need for improved air defence amid rising geopolitical threats.

Experts recommend that Belgium consider investing in a multi-layered air defence system, akin to Israel's "Iron Dome," which, despite its high cost, offers effective protection against diverse threats such as small drones. This could provide a more robust defence compared to existing systems like the Patriot.

The urgency of Belgium’s air defence needs comes against the backdrop of recent intelligence reports suggesting a possible Russian invasion of NATO members as early as 2026. The Russian military’s preparations for potential nuclear strikes into Europe further heighten the stakes for Belgium, which has been actively supporting Ukraine.

Overall, Belgium’s current air defence capabilities may be insufficient to address the evolving threats, underscoring the need for urgent upgrades to ensure national and NATO security.