The Belgian Defence is facing a severe shortage of aerial assets for firefighting, a problem that recently became acute during the fires in the High Fens, better known as the Fagnes. The availability of specialized aircraft and helicopters is crucial for a rapid and effective response to wildfires, but the Defence's current capacity is far below par, according to media reports. This situation places Belgium in a vulnerable position, especially with the increasing frequency of dry periods and forest fires.
What is Happening
The recent fires in the High Fens have once again exposed the scarcity of aerial resources within the Belgian Defence. As the flames spread, it became clear that the Defence possesses hardly any specialized helicopters or aircraft to combat the fires from the air. The NH-90 medium helicopters have been decommissioned, and the new lighter Airbus H145M aircraft are only just becoming operational. This means that for large-scale wildfires, such as those in the Fagnes, aerial support is extremely limited, significantly complicating and endangering the deployment of ground troops and firefighters. This leads to longer suppression times and greater damage.
Background
The lack of aerial firefighting capabilities is not a new issue within the Belgian Defence. The necessity of investing in heavy transport helicopters like the Chinook, which can also be used for firefighting operations, has been debated for a long time. However, the acquisition of these is not expected before 2033, leaving a significant gap in capacity for the coming years. This policy results in a persistent lack of flexibility and effectiveness in crisis management. The discussion about budgets and priorities within Defence plays a major role here.
Impact on national security and crisis management
The lack of adequate resources has direct consequences for national security. Wildfires pose a growing risk, especially in areas such as the High Fens, the Kalmthoutse Heide, or the province of Limburg. Without sufficient air support, fire departments and Civil Protection services take much longer to control the fires, resulting in greater ecological damage and potential danger to residents and infrastructure. Experts have long advocated for accelerated investment in these crucial capabilities, where Defence can play an important role in supporting civilian services. It is essential for Belgium to act quickly to address this vulnerability.
What This Means for Belgium
The limited aerial firefighting assets of the Belgian Defence indicate a vulnerability in the national crisis response. In future large-scale fires, Belgium may again be dependent on international aid or suffer greater damage than necessary. This has not only financial consequences but also ecological and social implications. It demonstrates the need for a reconsideration of investments in defence capabilities that can also serve civilian purposes. According to an article by L'Echo, a primary source on this issue, the situation is concerning and requires swift action to increase Belgium's readiness.