Belgium to receive first NASAMS air defense system in 2027

Thursday 26 - 16:00

By: Sahili Aya

Belgium to receive first NASAMS air defense system in 2027

Belgium is set to strengthen its national air defense capabilities with the delivery of its first NASAMS battery in 2027, marking a significant step in modernizing the country’s security infrastructure.

Prime Minister Bart De Wever confirmed that the government has already placed an order for the Norwegian-American National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). According to Belgian media reports, the initial battery is scheduled to become operational in 2027, with additional units expected in subsequent years.

The system will play a central role in protecting strategic infrastructure, particularly the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, one of Europe’s largest maritime and logistics hubs. Authorities estimate that the first battery will be capable of covering nearly two-thirds of the port area, with a second unit potentially extending protection to the entire complex and nearby sensitive installations, including nuclear energy facilities.

Developed jointly by Norway’s Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and the United States’ Raytheon, NASAMS is designed to counter a wide range of aerial threats. These include unmanned aerial vehicles, helicopters, cruise missiles and fixed-wing aircraft. The system has been widely adopted by NATO member states as part of broader efforts to enhance integrated air and missile defense capabilities.

The Belgian government’s decision follows heightened security concerns, including multiple reports last year of drone sightings near sensitive industrial and chemical sites. In response, the prime minister also confirmed that an additional anti-drone system has been ordered to reinforce the country’s protective measures.

The move reflects a broader European trend of increased defense spending and modernization amid evolving security challenges. By investing in advanced air defense systems, Belgium aims to bolster the resilience of critical infrastructure while aligning with NATO’s collective defense framework.