Belgium is strengthening homeland air defense by introducing NASAMS missile systems to defend the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, one of Europe’s most strategically important economic hubs. Scheduled for installation in 2027, the first battery will cover a majority of port operations against aircraft and cruise missile threats. The initiative accompanies an expanded procurement strategy addressing both medium- and short-range threats, including mobile air defense platforms and man-portable missiles. Officials also confirmed investment in dedicated anti-drone defenses following security incidents involving unidentified UAVs. The deployment underscores Belgium’s broader effort to rebuild national air defenses and align with NATO requirements amid growing concern over infrastructure vulnerability.
