Belgium aims to increase defense spending to 2% of its GDP by the end of the year, a 4.5 billion euro increase. This involves utilizing funds from frozen Russian assets, Belfius dividends, and potential government stake sales, along with new revenue measures and potential cuts in other sectors, like healthcare and development aid. There is also consideration of temporary budget rule relaxations from the EU.
The plan prioritizes:
Potential collaborations with Netherlands and Luxemburg on air defense are being explored, along with a possible delayed purchase of F-35s, potentially linked to the development of a future Franco-German fighter jet. The purchase of a second mechanized brigade is also under consideration, pending review of existing projects.
The government aims for a deal before the Easter holidays, although debates around funding sources and potential budgetary measures will influence the final outcome. The possibility of increased NATO spending targets (up to 3% of GDP or more) adds a layer of complexity to the situation. The overall increase in defense spending is considered a necessity due to the geopolitical context and the actions of other European countries.