Belgium prepares drone cooperation deal to tap Ukraine's battle-tested expertise

Belgium is set to deepen its military cooperation with Ukraine through a new agreement focused on drone technology, building on commitments already made to Kyiv.

Brussels has previously pledged to deliver 30 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine and has committed to providing more than €1 billion in aid annually. The two sides are now working toward a separate agreement specifically covering drones.

Learning from the battlefield

The planned deal is designed to give Belgium access to knowledge and technology that Ukraine has developed through years of active warfare. Ukraine has emerged as one of the world's most experienced users of drone technology in real combat conditions, and Belgium is looking to draw on that expertise.

Signing date under discussion

According to available information, both Belgium and Ukraine are currently working to settle on a date to formally sign the drone agreement. This suggests negotiations have advanced to a late stage, even though no exact timeline has yet been made public.

The move fits into a broader pattern of Western countries seeking closer defense-technology ties with Ukraine, aiming to benefit from lessons learned on the battlefield while continuing to support the country's defense against Russia's invasion. Combined with the F-16 delivery and sustained annual funding, the prospective drone pact would mark another step in Belgium's expanding support for Ukraine's military capabilities.