On August 18, 2025, the Belgian Armed Forces achieved a long-awaited milestone with the arrival of their first MQ-9B SkyGuardian at Florennes Air Base. Initiated in 2018 but delayed due to technical setbacks, the program now marks a significant step forward in Belgium’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. The official unveiling of the aircraft, along with newly built facilities, is scheduled for September 23, 2025.
Developed by General Atomics, the MQ-9B represents an advanced successor to the MQ-9 Reaper. Certified to operate in civilian airspace, the SkyGuardian combines endurance and versatility. With a wingspan of nearly 24 meters, a maximum takeoff weight of 5,670 kg, and more than 40 hours of flight endurance, it is powered by a 900-horsepower Honeywell TPE331-10 turboprop engine. The system can reach altitudes of 40,000 feet and cover distances of up to 11,000 km, providing Belgium with strategic long-range mission capability.
While primarily designed for ISR operations, the platform also has strike potential. Equipped with nine hardpoints, it can carry precision munitions such as Brimstone missiles or Paveway IV bombs. Its advanced sensor suite includes synthetic aperture radar, electro-optical/infrared systems, and optional maritime and electronic warfare packages. Link-16 connectivity ensures seamless interoperability with NATO allies.
The program also highlights Belgian industry’s involvement, with local companies contributing components and maintenance support. On the personnel side, six pilots, six sensor operators, and six mission intelligence coordinators received intensive training in the United States, with a second tactical phase planned in the United Kingdom. To operate the system, the 2nd Squadron Comet has been reactivated at Florennes.
After passing its U.S. Acceptance Test Procedure on July 22, 2025, the system was dismantled, flown to Belgium aboard A400M transport aircraft, and reassembled on-site.
For the first time in its history, Belgium has authorized these drones to be armed, subject to strict rules of engagement. Beyond ISR missions, they can be employed for precision strike operations if required, reflecting Belgium’s growing emphasis on autonomous and next-generation technologies.
As part of the international coalition supporting Ukraine with drone capabilities, Belgium’s adoption of the SkyGuardian underscores its evolving defense posture and its reinforced role within NATO. The recent appointment of Lieutenant General Michel Van Strythem to head the “Drones and Innovation” Task Force further illustrates the strategic importance attached to unmanned systems.
More than just a technological acquisition, the SkyGuardian represents Belgium’s adaptation to modern security challenges and its commitment to multinational defense cooperation.
