Flanders (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Flemish Minister of Environment Jo Brouns (CD&V) seeks to streamline and enhance the accessibility of licences for army operations and defence industry production. The defence industry’s construction and equipment production should receive additional stimulus from these changes.
Flemish Minister of Environment Jo Brouns (CD&V) has proposed measures to streamline and expedite licensing procedures for the army and defence industry as part of the ‘Flemish Defence Plan’. The plan serves two objectives, which include speeding up the construction of essential military sites as well as increasing the output of military products.
Brouns emphasised the need for faster decision-making in light of geopolitical developments and increased defence investments, stating, “We do not want our safety to depend on lengthy permit procedures.” The proposals include expanding existing exemptions for the army and introducing a ‘turbo decree’ to accelerate permit processes during military emergencies.
Movements by the armed forces near vital infrastructure, including energy facilities, water treatment centres and transportation centres, would gain automatic authorisation through proposed legislation. The port of Antwerp could receive quick deployment of its anti-aircraft defences from the defence forces. Additionally, the ‘turbo decree’ would enable swift licensing for defence-related projects during a state of war or military crisis, allowing factories to produce military equipment quickly.
The service will serve as a defence and military permit assistance hub for the military and defence industry. These initiatives are part of the broader ‘Flemish Defence Plan’, which aims to foster a robust local defence industry. The complete plan is set to be published in the vicinity of the Easter holiday season.
What is the history behind the Flemish defence plan and accelerated permits?
The Flemish Defence Plan accelerates permits for both military forces and defence industry operations as tensions rise and countries boost their defence expenses across Europe. Belgium along with NATO members, agrees to raise its defence spending to 2% of GDP according to alliance requirements.
Antwerp port serves as both an economic centre and logistics hub while being considered a priority site for military installations because it remains exposed to potential risks. The existing permitting system causes project delays because it takes between one and two years for authorities to provide final approval.
The proposition builds upon present military construction exemptions to develop new measures against delays. The framework demonstrates a regional strengthening of defence manufacturing capabilities as the EU recently launched an €8 billion defence fund to improve military readiness throughout the continent.
