Guarding nuclear sites

By guarding these sensitive sites around the clock, we provide a vital security buffer and help prevent sabotage, espionage, or terrorist attacks. Our rapid reaction units consist of personnel from all branches of Defence. In the event of an incident, we intervene immediately, while waiting for the police.

Following the 2015–2016 terrorist attacks in France and Belgium, the Belgian government decided to strenghten security at nuclear facilities. Between March 2016 and 31 December 2022, the Ministry of Defence secured nuclear sites as part of Operation Spring Guardian (OSG), in support of the federal police.

From 1 May 2023 to 1 May 2024, military personnel took over the OSG mission at the Doel nuclear site, allowing the police to allocate more capacities to other tasks.

Since July 2025, this mission has resumed under the name Operation Vigilant Protector.

Through this mission, we support the federal police by enabling them to focus on other tasks.

Our initial deployment involves guarding the nuclear power plants at Doel and Tihange. This will later expand to other nuclear sites, including the Mol – Dessel – Geel and Fleurus zones.

Our presence at nuclear sites enhances national preparedness and reinforces the confidence of both the public and international partners in the resilience of our critical infrastructure. This deployment is part of the broader defensive dissuasion and contributes to the stability of our society.