Belgium’s Defence minister, Theo Francken, has announced a halt to the sale of military sites, including a planned sale in Geel. The move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the armed forces, including expanding personnel to over 40,000 and reactivating the Koksijde airbase.
Belgium will no longer sell off its military sites, Defence minister Theo Francken confirmed in his policy declaration. The decision reverses previous plans to offload certain military domains, including one in Geel, which will now be reassessed.
“We need our quarters, either for military use or for industrial production”, Francken stated. The minister’s plan also includes reactivating the Koksijde airbase, which had been earmarked for closure. Helicopters were set to move to Ostend Airport.
The policy follows the previous government’s proposal to establish “future barracks” in both Flanders and Wallonia. However, Geraardsbergen, initially chosen as the Flemish site, is now off the table due to opposition from the new city council.
More troops
Francken also aims to expand the armed forces significantly. The previous government had set a target of 25,300 military personnel and 3,800 civilian staff. Under the new plan, these numbers would increase to 29,000 soldiers and 5,700 civilians. Including reservists, the total force would exceed 40,000.
Additionally, from next year, Belgium will introduce a voluntary military service programme for 18-year-olds. Participants will receive a competitive salary, with the option to extend their service or join the reserves after the initial year.
#FlandersNewsService | Minister of Defence Theo Francken during a visit to the Defense Headquarters in Evere © BELGA PHOTO DIRK WAEM