With more than 9,000 military personnel, we are the largest Force of Defence. Day and night, we are ready to safeguard, guarantee, or restore peace, both at home and abroad.
The Belgian Army is a robust, rapid and flexible instrument that serves the security of the country and its allies. Our mission is to protect national interests and the security of our citizens. To this end, we always stand ready to provide assistance or take military action, both at home and abroad, together with our partners within the EU, NATO and the UN.
9000
Military personnel
1
Special Operations Headquarters
5
Motorised infantry battalions
During missions abroad our troops play a crucial role in maintaining or restoring peace. Together with our international partners, we help ensure stability in the regions where we are deployed. Currently, our units are active in protecting NATO's eastern flank, with deployments in Romania, Lithuania and Kosovo.
The Belgian Army is an essential pillar of Belgium’s territorial defence. We protect the country not only against external threats. We are also vigilant against hostile groups targeting civilians or critical infrastructure, such as (nuclear) power plants, drinking water networks or communication routes.
Within European and Atlantic cooperation, the concept of ‘territory’ often includes the territory of all Member States, which have agreed to defend and support each other.
In times of major crisis as well as in less urgent situations we provide valuable support to society. When needed we can mobilise military personnel, supply specialised equipment or offer technical expertise.
A concrete example: the Explosive Ordnance Disposal service, which defuses and clears explosives, is ready to intervene 24 hours a day.
When a crisis breaks out abroad, we are ready to evacuate our fellow citizens. This is one of the specific tasks of the Belgian Army, and specifically of the military personnel from the Special Operations Regiment.
As during operation Vigilant Guardian and Spring Guardian, our military personnel can also guard and secure critical installations and sensitive sites in Belgium in support of the Federal Police.
