Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Defence Minister Theo Francken (N-VA) initiated a proposal to his government partners to raise defence funding above 2% of GDP by the upcoming summer period instead of waiting until 2029.
Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken (N-VA) wants to raise defence costs above 2% of GDP within the upcoming summer period, which was formerly planned for 2029. A portion of the budget funds will be used to obtain extra F-35 aircraft, thus expanding the existing 34-aircraft fleet. The Belgian military forces will join Ukraine’s peacekeeping operations if Russia agrees to a peace deal according to Francken’s plan. The minister will abolish the Muyters Directive while establishing a payment scheme to support businesses with their military reservist expenses related to domestic safety services.
In an interview with De Tijd, Francken emphasised the necessity of acquiring more F-35s.
“We do not have the capacity to choose anything other than F-35s,”
Francken stated in an interview with De Tijd.
“The day there is a peace agreement signed by Russia, recognising an international force to maintain safety, it seems reasonable for Belgium to participate. Just as we did in Kosovo,”
He explained.
Belgium aims to grow its defence industry through the repeal of the Muyters Directive because this change will enable Flemish universities to conduct military technology research. The proposal by Francken provides economic benefits to businesses by helping workers join security reserve units dedicated to domestic defence.
What is the history behind Belgium’s Defence spending and policies?
Belgium currently invests a smaller amount of its GDP than the NATO-established 2% target, which members must meet for collective defence goals. The NATO objectives inspire this increase while geo-political tensions across Europe continue to rise. Francken works to abolish the Muyters Directive of 2003 because this longtime restriction on military research at Flemish universities hampers national defence capabilities.
International peacekeeping involvement by Belgium in Kosovo showcases its capabilities to become involved in potential future missions in Ukraine. The acquisition of F-35 fighters fulfils Belgium’s objective to modernise its air force because it corresponds to the flying programs of NATO’s member nations.
