Belgium Faces Drone Incursions, Seeks NATO Aid

Unidentified drones have flown over key Belgian sites, including airports, military bases, and a nuclear power plant, prompting temporary closures and international assistance in recent days. The sightings, reported across the country last week, disrupted air travel and raised security concerns among NATO allies.

On Thursday, drones were spotted near Brussels Airport, also known as Zaventem, leading to its temporary shutdown and the cancellation or diversion of dozens of flights. Around 3,000 passengers on Brussels Airlines were affected. Similar incidents occurred on Tuesday at Brussels and Liege airports, suspending air traffic. Late Sunday, three drones were detected over the Doel nuclear power plant near Antwerp, though operations at the facility remained unaffected, according to a spokesperson for operator Engie. Local authorities notified security services, which are now investigating.

Drones also breached restricted airspace over the Kleine-Brogel air base, a sensitive site hosting U.S.-made F-16 aircraft and slated for F-35s in 2027. Belgian military officials described the incursions as large-type aircraft at high altitudes over three consecutive nights last week. Chief...