Belgium Says It Struggled Against 3 Drones Spying on a Key Air Base
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Mystery Drones Breach Belgian Air Base for Third Consecutive Night
Above: The road in front of the Belgian Air Force Kleine-Brogel air base in Peer, on Nov. 2, 2025. Image copyright: Jill Delsaux/Getty Images
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
The Belgian government’s vague and alarmist response to the drone sightings masks a familiar pattern of fear-driven budget increases and military escalation. Despite the lack of concrete evidence, authorities quickly suggest a sophisticated foreign espionage operation. At the same time, NATO is pushing for tens of millions in “emergency” counter-drone funding alongside hundreds of millions in long-term military spending, all while recruitment numbers fall and defense budgets face public criticism — this episode appears more like security theater than actual security.
Pro-establishment narrative
The repeated drone incursions over the Belgian military base are a serious security threat targeting one of NATO’s most sensitive sites, known for hosting U.S. nuclear weapons. The government’s investigation and defensive measures are necessary to protect national sovereignty and allied interests from potential espionage or hostile action. Belgium must strengthen its military air defense capabilities to respond effectively to these provocations.