Our mission is to monitor and protect the oceans and their shipping routes with our ships and personnel.
Patrol vessels are active around the clock off our coast. Frigates and minehunters operate worldwide, often as part of NATO missions. In doing so, they defend Belgian interests and protect free passage at sea wherever it is threatened.
1300
Employees
10
Operational ships
3
Capacities
Worldwide, more than 90% of all goods are transported by sea. We ensure that these maritime trade routes remain open and safe, from the North Sea to the Red Sea. Our ships protect maritime traffic wherever necessary. Because no shipping means no shopping.
Our ships participate in NATO, EU, and UN missions. Examples include NATO assignments in the Baltic Sea and EU operations near the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea. In doing so, the Belgian Navy contributes to safety and stability, even far beyond our own coastline.
Old sea mines and explosive devices remain a danger at sea and a threat to international trade. From the North Sea to the Baltic Sea, our minehunters clear these hazards, relying on years of international experience.
Soon, new advanced mine countermeasure vessels will strengthen this vital mission - faster and safer than ever before.
We also support other government departments at sea, both federal and regional, such as the police and customs. The Maritime Security Centre ensures cooperation between all involved services, enabling them to carry out their operations more effectively. For example, in 2024 and 2025, the Belgian Navy assisted during Operation White Sea to combat drug smuggling at sea.
Our patrol vessels carry out fisheries inspections, detect pollution, and assist in uncovering illegal trade off our coast. In 2025, we intercepted several suspicious vessels.
Foreign military movements don’t go unnoticed either. We closely monitor suspicious ships and, if necessary, shadow them.
If people are in distress at sea, we’re ready to help. In 2024, we assisted in the rescue of a sunken fishing boat. Our rapid interventions make all the difference.
We can also deploy our maritime assets for humanitarian operations, such as providing aid after a devastating hurricane.
We deploy our expertise worldwide. By working closely with partner nations, we share our experience and strengthen international maritime cooperation.
Our ships also serve as flagships for Belgium. We can support Belgian diplomacy and industry abroad, for example by hosting events on board. In this way, we contribute discreetly but effectively to our international visibility and economic opportunities.
