NATO summit benefits them: They acquired new air defense systems
At the NATO summit held in Ankara, Belgium signed a new agreement to strengthen its air defense, purchasing modern defense systems with a budget exceeding 3 billion euros.
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According to the announcement made during the NATO Summit held in Ankara, the Belgian Armed Forces have made a significant decision regarding defense investment. As part of the move announced by Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken, the military will acquire 10 medium-range NASAMS missile batteries, 20 short-range Skyranger 30 air defense systems, 14 Thales Ground Master 200 (GM200) mobile radars, and Iveco trucks to be used for transporting these systems, all aimed at modernizing the army.
COMPREHENSIVE PROTECTION WITH NEW SYSTEMS
It was stated that with this agreement, Brussels, which aims to make every preparation against the increasing threats of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), cruise missiles, and fighter jets in recent years, will both strengthen its technological infrastructure and update its military strategy. The purchased NASAMS batteries will play a crucial role in protecting ports, air bases, and critical logistics corridors against air attacks.
The Skyranger 30 systems, which stand out with their high firing capability, aim to neutralize close-range threats such as low-cost UAVs and helicopters with a structure that allows for 1200 rounds per minute and the use of programmable airburst ammunition. This will prevent the unnecessary consumption of expensive missiles.
INCREASED MOBILITY WITH MOBILE RADARS
On the other hand, the Thales Ground Master 200 (GM200) mobile radar systems have the capability to conduct surveillance at a range of up to 250 kilometers. Thanks to this feature, the risks associated with fixed radars will be avoided, providing a significant advantage against potential threats targeting radars. Due to their mobility, the systems' vulnerability to becoming targets will also be minimized.
This new defense equipment for Belgium will allow the country to protect its airspace in a multi-layered manner, enabling it to adapt to modern warfare conditions. The agreement, which was finalized on July 8, 2026, is interpreted as a significant reinforcement for defense cooperation in the region within the framework of the NATO alliance.