Following recent drone incursions that disrupted Belgian airspace, the government is pursuing a coordinated, cross-agency response to prevent future incidents.

The National Security Council is pushing for stronger inter-service cooperation, with the National Airspace Security Center (NASC) envisioned as a hub for situational awareness rather than a command center.

Defense Minister Theo Francken describes the NASC as a positive step for coordination and notes the plan includes 50 million euros for anti-drone equipment to be submitted to the government.

Experts and officials concur that coordination has improved but warn that hardware gaps, especially in drone detection capabilities, remain a concern.

The NASC is slated to be operational by the start of 2026 at Beauvechain, integrating customs, police, and aviation directorate within the Control and Reporting Centre.

The government will maintain international coordination and may adapt legal frameworks governing drone overflights, with discussions including NATO Secretary General and ongoing collaboration.

The NASC will provide a comprehensive, real-time picture of Belgian airspace to relevant services, functioning as an information-gathering center rather than a decision-making body.

Officials outlined a three-axis strategy for drone incidents—detection, identification, and potential neutralization—as part of the broader response plan.