Belgium’s new government, led by Prime Minister Bart De Wever, has committed to increasing defense spending to NATO’s 2% GDP target by 2029 and 2.5% by 2034. Defense Minister Theo Francken called past underinvestment a “period of national disgrace” and emphasized the need for modernization. The plan includes funding for air defense, additional F-35 fighter jets, a third frigate, and increased munitions stockpiles. Belgium, which spent just 1.3% of GDP on defense last year, will support upgrades through a €2.4 billion Defense Fund. The Ministry of Defence will present a new investment plan ahead of the NATO summit in June.
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