Belgium Approves Purchase of Norwegian Air Defense System Ahead of NATO Summit

Belgium's federal government has reached a final agreement to acquire the Norwegian NASAMS air defense system, following in the footsteps of the Netherlands. This decision comes just before the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara, where Belgium can formally sign a cooperation agreement with the Netherlands for the joint purchase.

The contract is reportedly worth 1.2 billion euros for ten batteries. Initially, both Belgium and the Netherlands announced their intention to jointly procure the NASAMS system, manufactured by Norwegian company Kongsberg. While the Netherlands has already purchased the system, Belgium's accession to the contract solidifies the joint effort.

Discussions within the Belgian government had previously centered on the NASAMS system's reliance on American missiles, a point of sensitivity given perceived U.S. distancing from Europe. Under pressure from the Vooruit party, a condition was reportedly included to explore European missile options for future integration, ensuring greater strategic autonomy.