Defence minister: Drones at Kleine-Brogel air base probably used for espionage
According to Defence minister Theo Francken, the drones spotted above the Kleine-Brogel air base the past two nights may have been used for espionage purposes. American nuclear weapons are stored at Kleine-Brogel, and F-35s will also be stationed there from 2027.
The activity of unidentified drones on Belgian territory is increasing. Several suspicious drones were spotted above the Kleine-Brogel air base near Peer, Limburg, in the past two nights. Drones have also been observed above Deurne airport and the Ostend airport grounds in recent nights.
When drones were detected above the Kleine-Brogel air base on Saturday night, a police helicopter gave chase. Unsuccessful attempts were also made to bring down the drones by jamming their signal.
Francken suspects this incident at Kleine-Brogel was an espionage operation. “How they operate exactly, where they hover, what they investigate and how long such a flight lasts: these are not accidents,” he said.
Other European countries are also dealing with drones. German chancellor Friedrich Merz previously pointed the finger at Russia. “I cannot say who is behind this, that is currently speculation,” said Francken. “We cannot prove that Russia is behind this.”
Drone plan
On Thursday, Francken announced a “drone plan”, a 50 million euro plan to buy more defence systems, which he wants to have approved by the Council of Ministers next week. This involves a standardised way of reporting a drone, as well as the purchase of anti-drone systems and a range of detection systems. It also includes systems to locate pilots.
The first effects of the plan should be felt this month. “Other things will take longer: the whole of Europe is buying defence systems,” said Francken. On VTM Nieuws, he added that the plan was only a first step. In the long term, an investment of half a billion euros will be needed.
#FlandersNewsService | The Kleine-Brogel military base © BELGA PHOTO JILL DELSAUX
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