Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken revealed on Sunday that suspicious drones observed flying over military bases in Belgium are believed to be spying on critical assets, including fighter jets and ammunition. He stated in an interview with Belgian outlet RTBF that, “They [the drones] come to spy, to see where the F-16s are, where the ammunition are, and other highly strategic information.”
Investigation initiated following drone sightings
Following reports of unmanned aerial vehicles operating over the Kleine Brogel military base in northern Belgium, which plays a crucial role in the nation’s defense and hosts American military presence, Francken announced the initiation of an investigation. This base is currently home to Belgium’s U.S.-made nuclear-capable F-16 fighter jets, and it is slated to host F-35s in the near future.
Recent drone activity heightens security concerns
This incident comes amid a troubling trend of drone sightings in Belgium and across Europe. Recently, Russian drones have been intercepted and shot down over Poland, while another was tracked over Romania. Additionally, unidentified drones, suspected to be of Russian origin, have caused disruptions in air traffic in Denmark, Norway, and Germany.
While Francken refrained from directly linking the drone incursions in Belgium to Russia, he acknowledged the likelihood of the country’s involvement. “The Russians are trying to do this in all European countries,” he stated. “Is it the Russians now? I can’t say that, but the motives are clear and the ways of doing things like this are also very clear.”
Francken also emphasized the evolving nature of warfare, noting, “War is truly a drone war, and the Defense Department really needs to prepare for that.” In response to these threats, he is set to propose a €50 million plan next week aimed at establishing a national counter-drone system, which will include funding for detection systems, jammers, and drone guns to safeguard vital installations.