Belgian police buy 18 machine guns for 95,000 euros to adapt to threat level

The police zone Limburg Region Capital in Belgium has bolstered its arsenal by acquiring 18 new SIG Sauer MCX machine guns, a significant investment totaling 95,000 euros. This move is a direct response to the evolving security landscape and an elevated threat level within the region.

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The threat level has changed, and we must change with it.

Commissioner Bert Piron explained that the decision to upgrade the weaponry was necessary because "the threat level has changed, and we must change with it." The new firearms will replace the zone's current machine pistols, which have been in service for over a quarter-century and utilize standard 9mm ammunition. The police cited the terrorist attacks at Brussels Airport a decade ago as a catalyst for re-evaluating the zone's armament.

"Criminals are increasingly using firearms with greater range and higher firepower. We cannot lag behind, and therefore the police had to adapt their equipment to act safely and effectively in all circumstances," Piron stated. The SIG Sauer MCX, chambered in .300 caliber, was chosen after rigorous testing rounds that compared various weapons based on factors like ease of use and recoil. Its greater range and precision make it more suitable for high-risk situations.

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Criminals are increasingly using firearms with greater range and higher firepower. We cannot lag behind, and therefore the police had to adapt their equipment to act safely and effectively in all circumstances.

These advanced weapons will be utilized not only by the intervention and special units but also for securing events and protecting individuals. A comprehensive training program is planned for approximately 160 police officers over the coming months, emphasizing thorough knowledge and safe handling of the new firearms. The new machine guns are slated for operational deployment starting in the spring of 2027.

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We deliberately chose for thorough training because we consider it crucial that colleagues have thorough knowledge of the weapon and can take it to the streets safely.