Belgium will purchase a range of 120mm mortar rounds over the next six years as part of its efforts to build a more robust and credible defence force, defence minister Theo Francken (N-VA) announced in a press release on Monday.
The contract, worth 348 million euros, covers the period from 2025 to 2031 and includes high explosive shells, smoke rounds and training ammunition. A public tender will now be launched to find a supplier.
“The arrival of the first mobile GRIFFON MEPAC (mortar for close-in fire support) is not a symbolic step; it is a structural modernisation of our firepower,” said Francken.
Stronger military ties with France
The investment is part of Belgium’s broader partnership with France under the CaMo project, formally relaunched at the end of July. According to Francken, the cooperation goes well beyond equipment.
“This is about doctrine, education, training and logistical integration. We want to deploy our troops in European formations, shoulder to shoulder with our allies, with identical equipment and the same operating methods,” he said.
The aim is to develop two fully operational artillery batteries by 2030.
In addition to increasing its artillery capabilities, Belgium’s defence strategy emphasizes interoperability with NATO allies, enabling joint operations and collaborative training exercises. The evolving security landscape in Europe necessitates such enhancements in military preparedness.
In light of geopolitical tensions, the defence minister highlighted the urgency in modernizing military assets as a deterrent against potential threats. As nations across Europe bolster their defence systems, Belgium aims to remain at the forefront of collective security efforts.
The minister’s statements reflect a growing sentiment within the Belgian government to ensure its armed forces are adequately equipped to meet contemporary challenges, while also strengthening ties with European partners.
“We are committed to investing in our defence. It is essential for the protection of our citizens and for Belgium’s role within NATO,” Francken emphasized during the announcement.
The procurement initiative is expected to provide a substantial boost to the domestic arms industry, generating local jobs and fostering continued technological advancements in military hardware.
The timeline for the delivery of the mortar rounds aligns with Belgium’s broader defence review, which seeks to enhance overall military capability, modernize equipment and improve operational readiness.
This initiative is part of a larger governmental push to increase defence spending in response to evolving global security threats, emphasizing national security and international peacekeeping commitments.
In conclusion, as Belgium moves forward with these military enhancements, its focus will remain on fostering partnerships and ensuring that its defence forces are prepared to meet both current and future challenges, reports 24brussels.
