Belgium to strengthen airspace surveillance following drone incursions

Belgium's Defence Minister, Theo Francken, announced on November 6 that the country will take steps to enhance its airspace surveillance after a series of drone sightings disrupted operations at key airports and military bases.

On the evening of November 4, Brussels and Liège airports were forced to close for several hours due to drone activity, leading to the diversion of multiple incoming flights and grounding others. In response to these incidents, Francken stated, "We have to be able to observe our airspace better," following a meeting of the country's security council to address the situation, Caliber.Az reports per Reuters.

To combat the growing concern over drone incursions, Francken revealed plans to establish a national air security centre by January 1. Additionally, he emphasised that if suspect drones are identified before the centre becomes operational, authorities will take immediate action.

"Where possible we will try to take them down, we will try to jam them," he said.

The Belgian government will also discuss the procurement of "counter-drone material" during a meeting scheduled for Friday, Francken added.

The recent drone sightings in Belgium come amid heightened concerns among NATO countries, which have experienced similar incidents in recent weeks. Airports in Copenhagen, Munich, and the Baltic region have also been targeted, while a swarm of 20 Russian drones entered Polish airspace in September.

Francken declined to speculate on whether Russia could be behind the drone incursions, noting that Belgian police are investigating multiple drone sightings near military bases in the past week.

By Sabina Mammadli