Belgian Land Forces Transform: Major General Baugnée Shares Insights Before 2025 Parade.

As Belgium’s National Day approaches on July 21, preparations for the traditional military parade are underway. This year, the parade highlights a key development for the Belgian Land Component: the official introduction of the first Griffon armored vehicles, delivered through the CAMO program in cooperation with France. During rehearsals, the Army Recognition team met with Major General Jean-Pol Baugnée, Commander of the Belgian Land Component, to discuss the ongoing transformation of the Belgian army, the operational capabilities of the new Griffon vehicles, and the future evolution of the land forces in response to emerging threats.

Our exclusive video interview, recorded amidst the preparations, provides insights into the strategic ambitions shaping the future of Belgium’s armed forces.
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The introduction of the multi-role armored vehicle Griffon represents a major enhancement for the Belgian land forces. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The participation of the armed forces in the 2025 parade marks a symbolic milestone, reflecting the ongoing transformation of the Belgian Land Component. For the first time, the public will see the tangible outcomes of this modernization with the formal presentation of the Griffon vehicles. This participation demonstrates the army’s objective to reinforce its operational posture and better address the demands of modern conflicts.

The introduction of the multi-role armored vehicle Griffon represents a major enhancement for the Belgian land forces. Acquired under the CAMO strategic partnership with France, the Griffon brings renewed capabilities in mobility, protection, and especially communication.

Its design emphasizes advanced interconnectivity between vehicles and command systems, enhancing unit coordination during operations. This network-centric approach is essential in contemporary conflict environments, where information speed and accuracy are critical for operational effectiveness.

The CAMO program extends beyond vehicle deliveries. It represents a comprehensive strategy to integrate emerging technologies across the armed forces. The Land Component is incorporating capabilities in drone operations, counter-drone systems, and electronic warfare, all crucial for maintaining operational relevance in hybrid and rapidly evolving threat landscapes.

The strategic objective is to build a complete Belgian brigade, fully interoperable with French forces, capable of covering the full spectrum of missions, including high-intensity combat.

Regarding the potential reintroduction of heavy tanks through participation in the Franco-German MGCS (Main Ground Combat System) program, the immediate priority is to fully equip Belgium’s brigade with wheeled armored vehicles. This brigade is intended to operate across various combat scenarios, including those of high intensity as seen in Ukraine.

Belgian military doctrine emphasizes the creation of an organic, complete, and versatile land force, capable of autonomous action while remaining interoperable with partners. Once this first brigade reaches full operational capacity, the formation of a second brigade may be considered. Engagement in the MGCS program remains under review but is not an immediate objective.

The modernization of the Belgian Land Component, illustrated by the arrival of the Griffon vehicles and the broader technological capabilities introduced through the CAMO program, marks a significant evolution for the Belgian army. The July 21, 2025 parade will showcase these developments to the public, highlighting the army’s efforts to adapt to the security challenges of the 21st century.

Watch our full interview with Major General Jean-Pol Baugnée in the exclusive video below.