Belgian defense minister Francken comments on X

Belgian defense minister Francken comments on X

Belgium is reassessing its position in the European Future Combat Air System (FCAS) following criticism from Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier. The defense ministry spokesperson confirmed the reassessment on Friday [1]. Trappier, who leads the design of the FCAS fighter, expressed concern over Belgium's purchase of 11 U.S.-made F-35A fighters and its commitment of 300 million euros to the FCAS program. He stated that Belgium's push for full partner status in FCAS is inconsistent with its procurement policy [1].

Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken responded to Trappier's comments by stating that the government will evaluate its position in the FCAS project. Francken highlighted Belgium's role as a founding father of NATO and the EU, and emphasized that the country cannot take lessons from "arrogant industrialists" [1].

The potential reconsideration of Belgium's bid for full partner status in FCAS is unlikely to significantly impact the project. However, it highlights political tensions within the program. Earlier this week, Dassault raised concerns about the future of FCAS amid a dispute with Airbus over leadership and control of the program [1].

Separately, Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken announced that Belgium is preparing to carry out new humanitarian aid airdrops over the Gaza Strip [2]. This move comes amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian concerns in the region. Francken underscored Belgium's readiness to deliver humanitarian aid, stating that "civilians cannot starve because of the war" [2].

In a separate development, Theo Francken praised Türkiye's role in defense innovation and regional diplomacy during his visit to the 2025 International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul. He highlighted Türkiye's advances in defense technology and expressed Belgium's intent to sign an agreement with Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler in the coming year [3]. Francken also announced that Belgium will soon host a Turkish defense industry attache in Brussels [3].

References:
[1] https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/belgium-reconsiders-fcas-role-dassault-134156533.html
[2] https://www.facebook.com/anadoluagencyenglish/posts/belgium-is-preparing-to-carry-out-new-humanitarian-aid-airdrops-over-the-gaza-st/1076142408038108/
[3] https://www.dailysabah.com/politics/belgian-defense-chief-hails-turkiyes-great-defense-potential/news