Belgium hosts first defence expo

Brussels has opened its first major defence exhibition, bringing together industry leaders, governments and military officials from around the world.

The three-day Brussels European Defence Exhibition (BEDEX) began on Thursday at Brussels Expo, marking the first event of its kind in Belgium. More than 200 exhibitors from 27 countries are attending, including about 50 Belgian companies. The first two days are reserved for defence professionals, while the exhibition will open to the public on Saturday.

Belgian Defence minister Theo Francken has strongly supported the event. He described it as a major opportunity for the country’s defence industry. The exhibition aims to connect companies, governments and armed forces, with the possibility of signing new contracts.

Several high-profile figures are expected on the opening day, including prime minister Bart De Wever, Belgium’s chief of defence Frederik Vansina, and Mark Rutte, secretary-general of NATO. Conferences during the event will focus on topics such as drones, the transformation of the defence industry and the role of small companies and start-ups.

“We can no longer rely entirely on the American defence umbrella”

At the same event, the Flemish government announced new funding for military technology. Minister-president Matthias Diependaele said Flanders will invest €3.65 million in eight local companies developing defence-related innovations.

The projects include underwater drones, artificial intelligence systems to detect online extremism, and simulation games that allow soldiers to train safely. According to Diependaele, the investment reflects a changing security environment.

“We can no longer rely entirely on the American defence umbrella”, he told VTM Nieuws. He added that Europe and Flanders must take greater responsibility for their own security.

The funding will be distributed through VLAIO, the Flemish innovation and enterprise agency, and focuses on so-called “dual-use” technologies that can be used both in civilian life and by the military.

Organisers, pointing to Brussels’ role as the political centre of Europe and the headquarters of NATO, hope BEDEX will grow into a major international meeting point for the defence sector.

_{#FlandersNewsService | Brussels European Defence Exhibition © BELGA PHOTO BENOIT DOPPAGNE + ​ ​ Flemish minister president Matthias Diependaele and Walloon minister Pierre-Yves Jeholet ​ © BELGA VIDEO MAARTEN WEYNANTS}