Belgium secures up to $3.7 billion US missile deal for F‑35 fleet

The Belgian government has asked the United States for approval to purchase weapons worth up to $3.69 billion (approximately €3.13 billion). The core of the package is the AIM‑120 AMRAAM air‑to‑air missile, which will arm Belgium’s 45 F‑35 fighter jets and can also be used in the NASAMS medium‑altitude air‑defence system. The sale was authorized by the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

Belgium hopes the contract will also create an industrial foothold, with plans for component manufacturing and possible assembly at the former NATO air base in Zutendaal. The deal pits Belgium against the Netherlands, which already holds significant AMRAAM orders and is a competing bidder for the same contract.

Defense Minister Theo Francken confirmed the budget ceiling while noting the acquisition’s dual‑use nature and its expected impact on Belgian defence capabilities and job creation.