Starting in 2027, the Port of Antwerp will deploy a dedicated NASAMS air defence system to protect much of its extensive industrial and logistics complex from airborne threats. The plan was unveiled by Prime Minister Bart De Wever at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges annual community event, where he highlighted that the initial battery will secure nearly two-thirds of the port’s territory. NASAMS functions as a medium-range, layered air defence solution, combining a search radar, multiple missile launch units, and a centralized fire control system capable of detecting, tracking, and engaging aerial targets. The system is optimized to counter aircraft and cruise missiles—key concerns for vital coastal infrastructure. To address the growing threat from small drones, Belgium has also ordered a specialized counter-UAS system following reports of unauthorized drone activity near critical facilities, including nuclear and chemical sites.
At the national level, Belgium has undertaken a broader modernization of its air defence network. In June 2025, it agreed to procure 10 NASAMS batteries from Kongsberg through cooperation with the Netherlands, representing a major reinvestment in air defence capabilities not seen since the 1990s. Complementing this medium-range acquisition, the government moved in 2025 to obtain Rheinmetall’s Skyranger mobile systems to reinforce short-range protection under the Strategic Vision 2025 initiative. Additionally, a May 2025 letter of intent committed Belgium to acquiring 200–300 Polish-produced Piorun MANPADS, further strengthening low-altitude defences against drones, helicopters, and other aerial threats.
