Belgium Invests 140 Million Euros in Ukrainian Air Defense

Belgium has contributed EUR 140 million to the International Air Defense Initiative (IAAD) fund.

Defense Minister Theo Francken stated this, according to the Belgian media HNL.

During a parliamentary report, the Defense Minister stated that this year, the government is contributing €140 million to a project supporting Ukrainian air defense at the request of the German Foreign and Defense Ministers.

He added that the Belgian Air Force is ready to deploy its A400M military transport aircraft to provide logistical support for the initiative.

Founded by Germany, the IAAD initiative is designed to mobilize the financial capabilities of EU and NATO countries, including Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, Denmark, Lithuania, Norway, and France.

It has made it possible to quickly provide Ukraine with effective air and missile defense systems – not through long-term production, but through rapid deliveries of existing systems and ammunition from the participating countries’ stockpiles. The project also coordinates procurement financing through intergovernmental contracts.

Belgium defends Ukrainian skies

In May, Theo Francken partially disclosed plans to transfer military aid for 2025, announcing the delivery of 20 Cerber air defense systems to Ukraine.

There is no information about the mysterious anti-aircraft system of this name. It is possible that this is a supply of missile systems based on the 70mm FZ275 LGR laser-guided missile, which operates on the same principle as the US APKWS.

Due to its relatively low cost, mass production capability, and technical characteristics, the FZ275 LGR is well suited to intercept drone attacks.

Belgium also plans to deliver the first two F-16 fighter jets to the Ukrainian Air Force this year and two more next year.

“We promised to become the largest supplier of F-16s to Ukraine. And here, of course, we will keep our words. Two F-16s will be delivered this year for spare parts, and two additional aircraft will be delivered next year. We really hope that there will be more, but we are waiting for the F-35. There are no delays on our part,” De Wever said.

According to him, as soon as Belgium receives the F-35 aircraft, it can immediately transfer F-16s to Ukraine. In total, the Belgian government has decided to transfer 30 F-16 combat aircraft.