Belgium’s newly formed coalition government, inaugurated on January 31, 2025, has set ambitious plans in motion to substantially increase its defense budget, aiming to rectify years of underfunding. Belgian Defense Minister Theo Franken unveiled this comprehensive strategy during his speech on February 8, addressing the prolonged neglect of the country’s defense capabilities. Franken condemned the previous insufficient defense investments as a “period of national shame,” advocating for a return to responsible defense funding appropriate for Belgium’s status as one of NATO’s founding members. The government’s resolve to meet NATO’s defense spending target of 2% of GDP by 2029 and further ambitions to attain a 2.5% GDP defense expenditure by 2034 indicate a significant shift in policy. In 2024, Belgium dedicated merely 1.3% of its GDP to defense, placing it among the lowest spenders in NATO.
Legislative Commitment and Policy Shifts
The increased defense budget will enable a series of critical enhancements across various military components, significantly bolstering Belgium’s defense posture. Strengthening the land component by adding an extra brigade for NATO operations is a notable measure to enhance ground defense readiness. Ensuring maritime security, Belgium will deploy a permanent frigate, boosting naval capabilities and readiness. Additionally, the government plans to enhance air defense systems, particularly focusing on mitigating the growing threat of drones. Air force expansions will include acquiring more fighter aircraft, while electronic warfare capacities will undergo substantial improvements.
Belgian Defense Minister Theo Franken articulated that the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine played a pivotal role in the government’s decision to reassess and emphasize defense funding. This event marks a historical turning point, with large-scale international conflict reemerging in Europe for the first time since World War II. This stark realization highlighted the urgent need for robust defense investments. Citing the ancient military treatise “On Military Matters,” Franken underlined that sustained peace is achievable only through strong defense capabilities. By adopting this proactive defense strategy, Belgium aims to both address immediate security concerns and build a resilient military foundation for the future.
Future Defense Enhancements
Considering the evolving global threats, Belgium’s defense strategy is focused on modernizing and expanding its military capabilities. A priority is finalizing the acquisition of a third Future Surface Combatant, an Anti-Submarine Warfare Frigate. Additionally, Belgium is likely to acquire more F-35 Joint Strike Fighters to add to the 34 units already ordered. These efforts enhance Belgium’s defense readiness and underline its commitment to NATO’s collective defense.
Belgium’s plan to increase its defense budget to 2.5% of GDP by 2034 reflects a long-term vision for sustained investment in military capabilities. This strategic approach is meant to ensure that Belgium’s military can handle current and future security challenges. The new budget addresses past deficiencies while aiming to put Belgium in a stronger position within NATO. Prioritizing defense funding demonstrates Belgium’s commitment to meeting NATO’s spending goals and maintaining a high level of military readiness, contributing to international security.
The government’s proactive stance aims to transform Belgium’s defense infrastructure, making the country a significant player in global stability. Addressing NATO’s concerns over historically low defense spending, the coalition government’s pledge to meet the 2% GDP target by 2029 and 2.5% by 2034 may require sustained political and economic support. However, with these commitments, Belgium aims to be a reliable NATO ally, ready to confront emerging threats and contribute to collective security.
