Belgian authorities have opened an investigation after drone footage captured over a military air base raised serious national security concerns. Defense Minister Theo Francken confirmed on Sunday that the drone activity over Kleine Brogel Air Base was not accidental.
“It wasn’t a simple flight, but a clearly targeted mission directed at Kleine Brogel,” Francken said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Police Investigation Underway
According to reports, Belgian police received multiple alerts on Saturday about drones flying over the air base located in northeastern Belgium.
Francken said that a police helicopter and patrol vehicles attempted to intercept the drone, but failed to capture it. Even the anti-drone jamming system reportedly deployed during the chase did not succeed in neutralizing the device.
A spokesperson for the Defense Ministry told Reuters that a formal investigation is ongoing.
Previous Drone Sightings Raise Security Concerns
This is not the first time that Belgium’s military zones have been targeted by unauthorized drone flights. Authorities also confirmed that multiple drone sightings were recorded last month over Elsenborn, another military base near the German border.
Under Belgian law, flying drones over military installations is strictly prohibited.
NATO on High Alert After Drone Incidents Across Europe
In recent weeks, NATO member states have increased surveillance and air defense readiness following a surge of drone incursions across Europe.
Airports in Copenhagen, Munich, and the Baltic region have all reported similar airspace violations. In September, around 20 Russian drones entered Polish airspace, triggering regional alarm.
EU Response: Strengthening Defense Against Drones
Last month, the European Commission announced four major defense initiatives, including the creation of a European anti-drone system and plans to fortify the EU’s eastern border with Russia. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to prepare Europe’s defense strategy by 2030.
Francken urged the Belgian government to increase investment in anti-drone technologies and enhance national airspace security.
“Belgium must be ready to defend its skies. This incident proves we need faster response systems and stronger defense infrastructure,” Francken emphasized.
