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. It’s a public secret that American nuclear weapons are stored at Kleine-Brogel. In addition, F-35s will also be stationed at the base from 2027 onwards.
The activity of unidentified drones on Belgian territory is increasing. Several suspicious drones were spotted above the Kleine-Brogel air base near Peer, Limburg province, in the past two nights. Drones have also been observed above Deurne airport and the Ostend airport grounds in recent nights.
When suspicious drones were detected above the Kleine-Brogel air base on Saturday night, a police helicopter gave chase. Attempts were also made to bring down the drones by jamming their signal. These attempts were however unsuccessful.
Defence minister Theo Francken suspects that 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,” said the minister.
Other European countries are also dealing with mysterious 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, the defence minister announced a “drone plan”, a 50 million euro plan to purchase 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, but also the purchase of anti-drone systems and a whole range of detection systems. It also includes systems to locate pilots.”
The first effects of the drone plan should already 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 50 million euro drone plan is only a first step. In the long term, an investment of half a billion euros would be needed.
#FlandersNewsService | The Kleine Brogel military base © BELGA PHOTO JILL DELSAUX
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