Belgium has unveiled Blue Dome, a new short- and medium-range air defence architecture that will combine radar, missile launchers and anti-aircraft guns to protect national territory against a range of aerial threats, including uncrewed aircraft.
The programme was presented by Belgian Defence on 9 November, alongside the announcement that the Air Force’s 51st Squadron would be re-established at Bevekom to develop expertise in ground-based air defence.
Belgium plans to acquire 14 GM200 MM/C radars, 10 NASAMS launch systems, 20 Skyranger 30 anti-aircraft guns and 54 command vehicles. The first systems are expected to be delivered and introduced into service in stages from 2027.
The GM200 MM/C radars will provide detection, identification and tracking of aerial threats. Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) launchers will provide short- and medium-range defence against drones, cruise missiles, helicopters and fighter aircraft. At very short range, the Skyranger 30 guns will provide an additional layer of protection, with the system specifically developed to counter drones and other low-flying threats.
The systems will operate as an integrated network, with radars, command centres and weapon systems exchanging information to coordinate responses to multiple threats.
Belgium and the Netherlands have also signed three programme agreements covering NASAMS launch systems, GM200 MM/C radars and Skyranger 30 guns. The two countries intend to acquire systems with identical configurations, supporting joint training, logistics, maintenance and operational cooperation.
Blue Dome will contribute to NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) approach and form part of the NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defence System (NATINAMDS), connecting Belgian capabilities with the wider Alliance network.
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Image: Belgium Ministry of Defence
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