Brussels – Belgian authorities have requested intelligence and technical support from NATO allies after a string of drone incursions that Defence Minister Theo Francken labelled “hybrid warfare.” Unmanned devices have buzzed not only Brussels Airport but also the Kleine-Brogel and Schaffen airbases—installations hosting F-16s and, reportedly, U.S. nuclear assets.
The Guardian reported that Belgian security services believe the pattern mirrors Russian reconnaissance missions spotted over Scandinavia and the Baltic in 2024. While no attribution has been made, officials note the timing follows Belgium’s high-profile role in blocking an EU plan to repurpose frozen Russian assets.
![Belgium turns to NATO as suspected Russian drones probe airports and bases]()
Belgium’s request means NATO’s Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) Support Cell could deploy mobile jamming units and share classified threat assessments with Brussels within days. Airlines welcomed the move; the Board of Airline Representatives in Belgium said a common front is needed because rogue drone pilots often operate across borders.
Companies sending staff to Belgium should expect heightened security at military-adjacent regional airports such as Ostend-Bruges and Chièvres, and possible short-notice air-space closures.
The Guardian reported that Belgian security services believe the pattern mirrors Russian reconnaissance missions spotted over Scandinavia and the Baltic in 2024. While no attribution has been made, officials note the timing follows Belgium’s high-profile role in blocking an EU plan to repurpose frozen Russian assets.
Belgium’s request means NATO’s Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (C-UAS) Support Cell could deploy mobile jamming units and share classified threat assessments with Brussels within days. Airlines welcomed the move; the Board of Airline Representatives in Belgium said a common front is needed because rogue drone pilots often operate across borders.
Companies sending staff to Belgium should expect heightened security at military-adjacent regional airports such as Ostend-Bruges and Chièvres, and possible short-notice air-space closures.
