Exclusive | Belgium could purchase rocket launcher systems to modernize its artillery capabilities.

The Arizona agreement, finalized on February 2, 2025, marks a shift in Belgium’s defense policy under the new government led by Prime Minister Bart De Wever. Presented to the King late on Friday evening, the agreement outlines a plan to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP by 2029 and 2.5% by 2034. This financial trajectory aims to expand Belgium’s military capabilities, modernize its forces, and align its commitments with NATO and EU security objectives. While the finalized document remains subject to minor modifications, it establishes a framework for national defense readiness, including the country's potential first MLRS purchase.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The Belgian Air Force played a key role in the first-ever A400M HIRAIN (HIMARS Rapid Infiltration) mission in July 2024, when an M142 system was deployed by Belgium’s 20th Squadron Tactical Airlift. (Picture source: US DoD)

A key element of the Arizona agreement is the establishment of a Defense Fund, which will serve as the primary mechanism for channeling resources into military modernization. Managed as a subsidiary of the state-owned SFPIM (Société Fédérale de Participations et d’Investissement), the fund will be supported through asset transfers to ensure a structured model for long-term investments. The government seeks to secure industrial returns from defense contracts by fostering domestic manufacturing, research, and development. Belgian defense firms will be integrated into procurement programs to support technological advancements and economic activity. Belgium is increasing its defense R&D budget, allocating at least 2% of total defense expenditures to technological advancements. Collaborative initiatives with European partners, following the participation in the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) and the FCAS, a future air combat platform, are under consideration.

Belgium’s air force modernization plan includes investments in new fighter aircraft, an expanded transport fleet, and enhanced electronic warfare and counter-drone capabilities. Plans for an operational helicopter fleet aim to improve rotary-wing missions in national and coalition operations. Transport aviation will be reinforced through the procurement of smaller, tactical platforms to supplement heavy airlift capabilities. Air defense investments focus on radar systems, air surveillance, and electronic warfare measures to enhance airspace protection.

The potential expansion of Belgium’s F-35 fleet is under discussion as the government reassesses previous procurement limitations. While the prior administration capped the order at 34 aircraft, NATO had recommended a larger fleet to meet air combat requirements. The current proposal, previously supported by the new Defense Minister, Theo Francken, considers acquiring additional F-35s to improve operational effectiveness. This expansion aligns with Belgium’s objective of reaching NATO’s 2% GDP defense spending benchmark by 2029 while maintaining interoperability with allied air forces. Increasing the number of F-35s would strengthen Belgium’s role in NATO air defense missions.

Belgium is modernizing its ground forces within the CaMo program, focusing on improvements in firepower, logistics, and operational mobility. The army plans to introduce new platforms to enhance deep-strike capabilities, integrating multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) and counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS). Stockpiles of essential military equipment will be expanded, and an additional brigade for NATO operations is under consideration. The initiative prioritizes advanced technologies and cooperation with European allies to develop next-generation combat capabilities. Given Belgium’s plans to procure more American fighter jets and its efforts to stimulate the domestic defense industry by prioritizing local manufacturing and technology development, the possibility of Belgium opting for American MLRS systems remains significant. This is particularly relevant given that a Trump election victory could lead to increased purchases of American equipment, alongside indications tied to both the Belgian defense industry and Belgium’s previous international exercises.

Thales Belgium has indicated that the US-made M270 MLRS can be configured to fire its 70mm rockets in a 9x6 array, which may align with Belgium’s interest in a system capable of launching both guided and unguided munitions. Given Belgium’s procurement strategy and industrial policies, selecting a modular MLRS with NATO-standardized ammunition would align with strategic objectives. The M270 MLRS, widely used by NATO allies, supports interoperability and the use of GMLRS, ER-GMLRS, and Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) for long-range engagements.

An alternative under consideration is the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), a wheeled variant offering greater mobility compared to the tracked M270. HIMARS can launch the same range of guided munitions but is designed for rapid deployment and integration with mechanized and airborne units. Several European countries, including Poland and Romania, have already acquired HIMARS, underscoring its growing role in NATO’s artillery capabilities. Belgium’s potential procurement of either system would mark a significant step toward reinforcing its deep-strike capabilities, aligning with NATO’s push for increased long-range fire support among member states. Furthermore, the Belgian Air Force played a key role in the first-ever A400M HIRAIN (HIMARS Rapid Infiltration) mission in July 2024, when an M142 system was deployed by Belgium’s 20th Squadron Tactical Airlift, 15th Wing, during the Winter Shield exercise with U.S. and Latvian forces.

Beyond air and ground force modernization, Belgium is allocating resources to naval expansion, unmanned systems, and cyber defense. The navy is set to acquire a third frigate and additional mine countermeasure vessels to support NATO maritime security operations. Investments in autonomous and remotely operated systems aim to improve underwater threat detection and neutralization. Belgium is expanding its drone fleet, integrating surveillance and combat-capable systems across multiple service branches to enhance reconnaissance, intelligence-gathering, and precision-strike capabilities.

Cyber warfare and electronic defense capabilities are being developed as part of Belgium’s modernization efforts. The government is strengthening cyber resilience, AI-driven defense applications, and electronic warfare tools. Military mobility investments include upgrades to transportation infrastructure, strategic landing capabilities, and specialized rail transport to support rapid deployments. Belgium is coordinating with NATO and EU partners to ensure interoperability and optimize logistical operations for allied forces in Europe.