In a major shift toward strengthening its armed forces, the Belgian government has approved an updated strategic defense plan that includes purchasing more F-35 fighter jets, acquiring a third frigate, and allocating billions of euros to air defense systems. The move is aimed at addressing long-standing capability gaps after decades of minimal defense spending.
Defense Minister Theo Francken outlined the urgent need for a “comprehensive transformation” of the Belgian military in the newly released Strategic Vision 2025 report. The goal is to restructure the armed forces for high-intensity conflict rather than overseas missions. The plan includes a significant increase in military personnel—by about 30% by 2034.
With defense spending rising to 2% of GDP, Belgium’s 2025 budget will reach €12.8 billion ($14.9 billion), a notable shift from its 2024 level of 1.29%. Between 2026 and 2034, the government is committing €34.8 billion toward military capabilities, with €24.7 billion allocated for concrete investments.
The modernization plan includes the purchase of 11 additional F-35A fighters at a cost of €1.67 billion. Belgium previously ordered 34 jets, eight of which have been delivered, with the full fleet expected to be operational by early 2031. Additionally, the country will spend €2 billion on 10 NASAMS air defense systems from Kongsberg, with orders to be placed in 2026.
Belgium also intends to invest €2 billion in three long-range air-defense systems starting in 2029, ensuring full interoperability with the Netherlands, which currently operates the U.S.-made Patriot system.
To enhance its ground forces, Belgium plans to invest €13.9 billion in motorized land capability, including €6 billion specifically for combat maneuver units. Naval capacity will also expand with the purchase of a third anti-submarine warfare frigate for €1.3 billion.
A third MQ-9B SkyGuardian drone is scheduled for procurement in 2027, with a dedicated budget of €254 million.
On the personnel front, Belgium will grow its active-duty force from 26,200 troops in 2024 to 29,000 by 2029 and 34,500 by 2034. The civilian defense workforce will more than triple, and reserve forces will grow five-fold to 12,800. A voluntary military service year for youth will be introduced in 2026, inspired by a similar Dutch initiative.
Francken warned that the risk of armed conflict today is higher than during the Cold War, and Belgium remains underprepared on many fronts—including public awareness of security threats.
As the United States shifts strategic focus to the Asia-Pacific, Francken emphasized the need for Europe to build greater autonomy within NATO. He argued for establishing a European defense pillar under the alliance framework.
Even after the war in Ukraine ends, the report warns that Russia might attempt to test NATO’s cohesion—possibly through incursions in the Baltics or missile strikes on member states, scenarios that could directly involve Belgium.
