Belgium has entered into a cooperation agreement with the Netherlands to procure 10 National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) from Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, marking a significant step toward strengthening its ground-based air defense network.
The agreement, signed during the NATO Summit in Ankara, allows Belgium to purchase the systems through the Netherlands’ existing acquisition framework. According to Kongsberg, contract negotiations are still underway.
Strengthening Critical Infrastructure Protection
The NASAMS batteries will enhance Belgium’s ability to defend critical infrastructure and civilian populations against modern aerial threats, including drones and cruise missiles. Prime Minister Bart De Wever previously announced that at least one battery will be stationed to protect the Port of Antwerp, with the first system expected to become operational in 2027.
While the government has not officially disclosed the contract value, Belgian newspaper De Morgen reported that the acquisition is expected to cost approximately 1.2 billion euros ($1.37 billion).
The procurement forms part of Belgium’s broader 4-billion-euro ($4.6 billion) air defense modernization program, which also includes plans to acquire a long-range air defense capability.
About NASAMS
Developed by Kongsberg in partnership with Raytheon, NASAMS is a ground-based short- to medium-range air defense system capable of employing AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9X Sidewinder interceptor missiles equipped with high-explosive blast-fragmentation warheads.
Each launcher can carry up to six missiles and engage fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, and cruise missiles at ranges of up to 60 kilometers (37 miles).
The system integrates the Raytheon AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel active 3D radar with passive electro-optical and infrared sensors, enabling the detection and tracking of aerial threats at distances of around 120 kilometers (75 miles) and intercepting targets flying at altitudes of up to 21,000 meters (69,000 feet).
With Kuwait’s recent acquisition, NASAMS has now been selected or adopted by 18 countries, including Ukraine, Australia, Chile, Spain, and the United States.
