Belgium Inducts U.S.-Made MQ-9B SkyGuardian

Belgium’s Air Force has taken a major step forward in modernizing its defense capabilities by unveiling its first U.S.-made MQ-9B SkyGuardian drone at Florennes Air Base on September 23, 2025. This event marks a historic milestone, positioning Belgium more firmly within NATO’s intelligence and surveillance network at a time of rising global security challenges.

The ceremony was attended by Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken and Chief of Defence General Frederik Vansina, highlighting the importance of the drone’s arrival. Both leaders stressed that this move represents more than just an upgrade in equipment—it strengthens Belgium’s autonomy, enhances resiliency, and expands its contribution to NATO missions.

Defense Technology

The MQ-9B SkyGuardian, built by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, is one of the most advanced medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) drones in the world. Belgium has ordered six SkyGuardians, all of which will be based at Florennes Air Base in Namur province.

This drone is designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, both for Belgium and NATO. It can support a wide range of operations, including maritime security, environmental monitoring, border patrol, and even crisis management during emergencies at home.

General Frederik Vansina described the SkyGuardian as a “force multiplier,” capable of making Belgium’s military more effective in both domestic missions and international deployments under NATO and European Union mandates.

Features and Capabilities

The MQ-9B represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, the MQ-9 Reaper. Key features include:

• Service ceiling of 40,000 feet.

• Endurance of more than 40 hours, allowing for long missions without refueling.

• All-weather capability, compliant with NATO and European airspace regulations, making it safe to operate in civilian skies.

• Advanced sensor suite, including high-definition electro-optical/infrared cameras and maritime radar, with the ability to perform electronic surveillance.

The SkyGuardian also has nine external hardpoints for carrying precision-guided munitions. However, Belgium plans to operate the drones in an unarmed configuration, focusing on surveillance and reconnaissance roles.

Cost, Training, and Delivery

Belgium’s procurement was made possible through a U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) agreement, first approved in 2020. The program is valued at around 500 million euros, covering not only the six drones but also:

• Ground Control Stations

• Satellite communications equipment

• Mobile support units

• Logistics and spare parts

• Training packages for pilots and crews, designed to last a decade

Belgian crews are currently being trained in the United States with the help of the U.S. Air Force’s 163rd Attack Wing. Deliveries will continue in stages through 2026, and full operational readiness is expected by early 2027.

Strategic Importance for NATO

Belgium is now the fourth European NATO member to acquire the MQ-9B, joining the United Kingdom and ahead of similar deliveries to the Netherlands and Poland. This strengthens regional cooperation and enhances NATO’s ability to respond quickly to threats.

The drones will be especially important for missions over the North Sea, the Baltic region, and the Mediterranean, where NATO faces increasing pressure from maritime challenges, hybrid threats, and geopolitical tensions.

Belgium’s Broader Vision

Defense Minister Theo Francken emphasized that the SkyGuardian is not just a purchase but a strategic investment in Belgium’s sovereignty and security. By integrating advanced autonomous systems, Belgium is preparing its armed forces to counter emerging threats, from cyber warfare to hybrid conflicts.

The move also aligns Belgium with NATO’s broader “Alliance Future Surveillance and Control (AFSC)” program, which seeks to replace the aging AWACS fleet with a mix of advanced drones, satellites, and next-generation ISR platforms.

The introduction of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian marks a transformative shift in Belgium’s military strategy. It strengthens the country’s defense capabilities, improves NATO’s collective security, and demonstrates Belgium’s readiness to meet modern challenges.

By embracing cutting-edge unmanned systems, Belgium is sending a clear message: it is committed to defending its sovereignty, supporting allies, and ensuring stability in Europe and beyond.