Belgium’s Ministry of Defence has unveiled plans to enhance its military personnel by doubling its force by 2035, alongside the introduction of a voluntary military service year for young individuals. These announcements were made on Monday at the Heverlee barracks during the launch of the annual recruitment campaign, reports 24brussels.
Record Recruitment Drive for 2026
In 2026, the Ministry will open 4,800 vacancies, setting a new record. This includes 2,800 positions for military personnel, 1,050 for reservists, and 960 for civilians. The army will recruit 1,338 personnel, while the air force and navy will enlist 410 and 178 respectively, with an additional 164 for the medical service. Over the next ten years, the goal is to expand to 34,500 military personnel, 12,800 reservists, and 8,500 civilians.
“We aim to strengthen and streamline the Ministry of Defence,” stated Defence Minister Theo Francken (N-VA). “This requires an influx of new talent. Our aspirations are high yet realistic. We are experiencing considerable interest, with an average of four applicants per vacancy.”
To achieve these ambitious targets, the Defence Department is looking for a diverse range of profiles. “The perception that you could only join the military as a paratrooper is outdated,” remarked Margot Van Waeyenberghe, head of recruitment communications. “We seek IT specialists, warehouse workers, technicians, psychologists, and educators, among others. We are offering positions for every field and every educational level.”
Investments in Modern Equipment
The military is also prioritizing investments in state-of-the-art equipment, including MQ-9B ‘Sky Guardian’ drones, new anti-aircraft systems, and incoming F-35 fighter jets. “Personnel at the Ministry of Defence will engage with advanced technology, new vehicles, and top-tier infrastructure,” Van Waeyenberghe noted. A new Cyber Force is set to be established next year, with recruits receiving the opportunity to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, funded by the army.
Voluntary Military Service Year in 2026
As part of these recruitment initiatives, a voluntary service year will launch in 2026. Approximately 130,000 17-year-olds will receive information letters about the program in November. In-person and digital information sessions will follow in each province.
Application processes will commence in January 2026, with 500 candidates aged 18 to 25 chosen to begin in September. Participants will receive a net salary of 2,000 euros per month while serving as reservists within the army, navy, or air force. An additional 1,000 positions are anticipated for 2027, with potential growth to a maximum of 7,000 over time.
“We necessitate a substantial influx of personnel,” Francken emphasized. “A significant amount of new equipment is forthcoming: it requires operation. Those interested can pursue careers within defence post-service year, while others will gain invaluable experience for the job market.”
No Return to Mandatory Service
Francken clarified that the program does not signal the reintroduction of mandatory service. “Reinstating mandatory military service is not in the coalition agreement and is not a viable option. Logistically, the army cannot support such a move,” he stated, although he expressed openness to a form of compulsory civilian service in the future.
He also aims to foster a renewed sense of civic duty within the community. “It is essential for individuals to give back to the country. This notion should be normalized. We have become somewhat ‘sluggish.’ Renewing this spirit is necessary. This approach has proven successful across numerous neighboring countries, and I am optimistic about its reception,” he added.
