Belgium’s defense minister has raised alarm over unidentified drones recently spotted flying over a military base that hosts U.S. nuclear weapons, suspecting they may be part of a spying operation. The drones were sighted above Kleine-Brogel Air Base in northern Belgium, a strategic facility that plays a key role in NATO’s nuclear deterrence posture in Europe. The incident has led to an investigation into whether the drones were intentionally used to gather intelligence on the base’s strategic assets, including its F-16 fighter jets and U.S. nuclear weapons under NATO sharing agreements.
The minister, Theo Francken, revealed that a drone jammer was deployed, but it was ineffective. A helicopter and police vehicles were dispatched to track the drone, but it was eventually lost after several kilometers. Francken emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that the drones were likely not passing through by accident. Instead, they were present for an extended period, indicating a deliberate surveillance effort. The minister called for heightened security measures, thanking those who responded to the incident and stressing the importance of continued vigilance against potential threats.
Kleine-Brogel Air Base is also central to NATO’s defense strategy, housing F-16s which will soon be replaced by the U.S. Air Force’s F-35A fighter jets. The base is reported to host U.S. nuclear bombs as part of the NATO weapons-sharing agreements, making it a high-value target for potential adversaries. The recent drone sightings have come amid a broader context of Russian military activity in Europe, including airspace incursions by Russian drones and incidents involving Russian fighter jets crossing into NATO member states. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has warned Moscow of the alliance’s readiness to defend its territory, calling out both intentional and accidental threats as a sign of incompetence or aggression.
Belgium’s defense minister also pointed to Russia’s motives, accusing Moscow of waging a hybrid war across Europe. Despite the lack of direct evidence linking the drones to Russian operations, the minister suggested the Kremlin’s actions align with its broader strategy to challenge NATO’s security posture. The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of current air defense measures against unmanned aerial systems. While the U.S. and NATO are working to enhance their capabilities, including upgrading to advanced fighter jets like the F-35A, the threat of drone-based surveillance remains a pressing concern for military security experts.
President Donald Trump added to the discussion by urging NATO allies to consider shooting down Russian aircraft that violate their airspace, though his comments have been met with mixed reactions within the alliance. Despite the political tensions, Belgium has maintained a neutral stance in the broader conflict, focusing on strengthening its security protocols and ensuring the integrity of its military installations. The recent drone sightings have underscored the growing risks associated with advanced surveillance technologies and the need for robust countermeasures in an increasingly complex security environment.