Belgium wants to buy American AMRAAM missiles for the F 35 and NASAMS systems for 3.14 billion euros. The transfer of part of the rocket production directly to the country is also in play.
Belgium is planning a significant investment in the modernization of its defense capabilities through the purchase of American missiles worth 3.14 billion euros. According to the Belgian media De Tijd and L’Echo, which refer to information from the Belga agency, the government in Brussels has already asked the United States to approve this transaction. Documents from the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) confirm that the order includes AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles manufactured by Raytheon.
- Belgium plans to buy American missiles for 3.14 billion euros.
- The order includes Raytheon’s AIM-120 AMRAAM radar-guided missiles.
- The missiles will be integrated into 45 Belgian F-35 fighters and NASAMS systems.
- Belgium wants to obtain the transfer of part of the rocket production to the Zutendaal plant.
- Belgium and the Netherlands are currently competing for the production contract for AMRAAM missiles.
These radar-guided missiles are designed to destroy air targets such as aircraft and will be integrated into the equipment of 45 Belgian F-35 fighter jets. In addition, they could also be used in NASAMS air defense systems, which are known for their effectiveness. AMRAAM missiles also gained international attention thanks to their deployment in the war in Ukraine, where they demonstrated their ability to counter modern threats.
Competition for production
Belgium hopes that the conclusion of this agreement will also bring economic benefits in the form of moving part of the missile production to the country. It is planned that the FN Browning plant in the city of Zutendaal could serve as a production base for the missiles, which would then be distributed throughout Europe. This move would not only strengthen the Belgian defense industry, but also create new jobs.
Nevertheless, Belgium faces competition from the Netherlands, which is also bidding for a similar contract. The Netherlands has placed large orders for AMRAAM missiles in the past, which may give it an advantage in negotiations with Raytheon.
Strategic modernization
This investment is part of a wider effort by Belgium to modernize its armed forces and strengthen its defense capabilities. The purchase of F-35 fighter jets and the integration of advanced missile systems aims to increase the country’s ability to respond to new security challenges in Europe. In the context of growing tensions in the world and the war in Ukraine, Belgium is trying to ensure that its defense capabilities meet current standards.
A decision on whether part of the missile production will move to Belgium will depend on the outcome of negotiations with the United States and Raytheon. The outcome of this agreement may have a significant impact not only on the Belgian economy, but also on its position within the European defense industry.
