Belgium Boosts Ukraine’s Air Defense With $160 Million Contribution via German Initiative

Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken announced that Belgium will contribute $160 million to support Ukraine’s air defense against Russian attacks, as was reported on July 16.

This financial aid is part of the German-led Immediate Action on Air Defence (IAAD) initiative, Defense Minister Theo Francken told Belgian outlet HLN. Additionally, Belgian A400M transport aircraft will provide logistical support.

Francken made this statement in response to questions from members of the Belgian Parliament, Peter Buysrogge and Christophe Lacroix. On July 17, he is scheduled to meet with the German ambassador to discuss further details of this contribution, which was requested by Germany’s ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defense.

Regarding Belgium’s own air defense modernization, Francken highlighted that Belgium plans to place its first orders later this year. The country will collaborate with neighboring countries, such as the Netherlands and Luxembourg, to synchronize their air defense efforts.

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Denmark has also expressed interest in exchanging information. Francken emphasized that the aim is to involve the local defense industry in this process.

Belgian MP Peter Buysrogge expressed satisfaction with the progress, stating that “after years of neglect, we are finally making headway.”

He praised the collaboration with neighboring countries and the inclusion of Belgium’s defense industry, noting that this cooperation strengthens European security while creating jobs and retaining expertise in Belgium.

Earlier, it was reported that the UK is going to send 5,000 laser-guided missiles to Ukraine in a landmark defense deal. The missiles are to be manufactured by Thales Belgium, with full-scale production aimed at meeting Ukraine’s air defense requirements.

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