Belgium has launched a new defense innovation initiative aimed at overhauling its military capabilities for future conflicts, as Defence Minister Theo Francken warned that the country and much of Europe remain unprepared for next-generation warfare.
The initiative, called “Odin,” is planned to be implemented as a large-scale accelerator backed by 3.6 billion euros ($4.1 billion) over the next decade.
It will focus on developing and rapidly deploying technologies such as drones, autonomous solutions, artificial intelligence, cyber defense, quantum technologies, and energy weapons, including lasers, according to local media.
The step comes after Francken reminded lawmakers in a Parliament statement that decades of underinvestment, driven by a belief in “permanent peace” after the Cold War, left Belgium overly dependent on the US for security.
He argued that increasing defense spending corrects that imbalance, while stressing that diplomacy and strategic communication must also receive sustained investment.
The Odin Program
Francken said that the Odin program complements the NATO country’s 34-billion-euro ($39.5 billion) military investment plan through 2035.
Under this framework, air and missile defense serve as top priorities, including the joint purchase of Norwegian-made National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) with the Netherlands.
Research introduced last year will also inform a procurement decision between Europe’s Surface-to-Air Medium-Range/Land-based or SAMP/T system and the US-made Patriot system, with a final choice expected before July 2026.
Other planned investments include the deployment of F-35 fighter jets, the purchase of 11 additional aircraft, a third frigate, and a second light brigade for ground forces.
Meanwhile, another study will explore the use of micro-modular nuclear reactors to provide energy independence for deployed troops, with findings expected by January 2027.
