Belgium goes Dutch to build Blue Dome multilayer air defence system

Belgium has signed a contract for 20 Rheinmetall static Skyranger 30 air defence systems. (Rheinmetall)

Belgium is building the Blue Dome multilayer air defence system with Dutch support. Defence Minister Theo Francken tweeted on X on 9 November 2026 that Belgium was re-establishing its 51st Squadron, with the country procuring 10 National Surface to Air Missile Systems (NASAMS), 20 Skyranger 30 air defence systems, 14 radars, and 54 command vehicles, which his ministry said on its website on 10 November would be delivered in stages starting in 2027.

The Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced on its website on 9 November that Belgium signed agreements with the Netherlands earlier the same day on the procurement of NASAMS, Skyranger 30, and Ground Master 200 (GM200) Multi Mission/Compact (MM/C) radars via the Netherlands. The ministry said the cooperation between the two countries included the Netherlands sharing knowledge and experience with the Belgian military.

The Dutch MoD noted that the air defence systems are identical to those the Netherlands is procuring. The ministry said Belgian personnel had already trained with NASAMS in the Netherlands and that Belgium will be closely involved in the production and acceptance of the GM200 MM/Cs and will also join the international user group for the systems.

The Dutch MoD added that the Netherlands involves Belgium in testing and supports preparation for the management and maintenance of the systems. In the future, both countries will also continue to cooperate on the employment, maintenance, and further joint development of the systems.

Static Skyranger