In a move to bolster Belgium’s military capabilities, the Council of Ministers has given the green light to the acquisition of 20 light helicopters, 15 of which will be utilized by the army while the remaining five will be allocated for the police force. The purchase will be facilitated through NATO’s Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA).
The NSPA serves as a centralized purchasing and support agency for NATO, working to enhance the alliance’s military capabilities and effectiveness. It provides a wide range of services, including acquisition and procurement, logistics and supply chain management, operational and systems support, and scientific and technical services.
The Belgian army will use the 15 Light Utility Helicopters (LUH) to replace 10 Agusta A109 and 4 NHIndustries NH90 rotorcraft as part of the Ministry of Defense’s Security, Technology, Ambition, Resilience (STAR) plan. This plan, approved last year by the government and parliament, will provide a budget of $267 million for the acquisition of the LUH aircraft.
Meanwhile, the five helicopters for the Federal Police will replace their MD 902 Explorers, providing the Air Support Department (DAFA) based in Melsbroek, Flemish Brabant with a much-needed upgrade.
The military has not yet specified a particular model or manufacturer, but it is said that they are leaning towards the H145M, a twin-engine aircraft manufactured by Airbus Helicopters. This is believed to be their top choice, with Leonardo and Bell helicopters being less preferred options.
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