FN Herstal launches M3M ENDURANCE .50-cal pintle weapon with extended service life
FN Herstal introduced the M3M ENDURANCE, an upgraded .50-calibre pintle-mounted weapon system with extended product life and reduced maintenance requirements. The system is an evolution of the M3M used on helicopters and armoured vehicles.
Belgium joins Spain and Germany in Airbus A330 MRTT automatic air-to-air refuelling programme
Belgium has joined Spain and Germany in a programme to equip Airbus A330 MRTT tankers with the A3R automatic air-to-air refuelling system. Airbus received full certification of A3R from Spain's aerospace technology institute INTA in February following cooperation with Singapore. The programme allows receiver aircraft to connect to the tanker boom without manual pilot control.
Belgium may quit Dutch ASW frigate program over delays
Belgium is exploring alternatives to the joint Dutch-Belgian anti-submarine warfare frigate project after delays pushed timelines back by years, Defense News reports. Dutch officials say negotiations continue, but Belgian sources indicate frustration over schedule slippage and diverging requirements. Belgium needs replacements for its M-class frigates by the early 2030s.
Why it matters: Small-navy procurement is fracturing under industrial delays and budget pressure — if Belgium walks, expect it to buy an off-the-shelf German or Italian design, further fragmenting European naval commonality.
Belgium and India partner on local 70mm rocket assembly in wave of industry agreements
Belgium and India signed a series of defence-industry agreements including provisions for local assembly of 70mm rockets in India. Belgian defence officials said the cooperation aims to strengthen European security of rocket supply, according to Breaking Defense.
Why it matters: Belgium outsourcing rocket assembly to India is either a pragmatic bet on Indo-European supply chains or a quiet admission that Europe can't sustain its own munitions base — probably both.