Peter Buysrogge: “After years of stagnation, air defence is finally on the way”

Member of Parliament and Chair of the Defence Committee Peter Buysrogge questioned Defence Minister Theo Francken today about the rebuilding of Belgium’s air defence. The minister was clear: everything is being done to ensure the first air defence systems are ordered before the end of the year.

“After years of neglect, things are finally moving,” said Buysrogge. “For four years, the Vivaldi government failed to invest in air defence—it simply wasn’t a priority for them. As a result, we were far too vulnerable to aerial attacks. This government is now fast-tracking the process—finally.”

Cooperation and industrial involvement

Minister Francken confirmed that Belgium will work closely with neighbouring countries the Netherlands and Luxembourg to align their air defence strategies. Denmark has also expressed interest in sharing information. At the same time, Belgian industry will play an active role. Potential suppliers have already made contact with local companies, and industrial participation will be a key criterion in the contracting process.

“It’s encouraging to see collaboration with our neighbours and a focus on domestic industry,” Buysrogge said. “We’re contributing to Europe’s security while ensuring Belgian companies are involved. This not only creates jobs but also helps us retain valuable expertise.”

Support for Ukraine

At the request of the German Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defence, and within the framework of the Immediate Action on Air Defence (IAAD) initiative, Belgium is contributing €140 million to support Ukraine’s air defence against Russian attacks. 

“After years of decline, we are finally choosing safety and responsibility again,” Buysrogge concluded.