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Why are drones disrupting airports in Belgium?
Drones have caused multiple airport shutdowns in Belgium, including Brussels and Liege, by flying near runways and airspace. These disruptions are believed to be part of a coordinated spying operation testing security measures and radio frequencies, as explained by Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken. The goal appears to be to gather intelligence and test the resilience of airport defenses.
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Are drone sightings near military bases a new threat?
No, drone sightings near military bases have been increasing since late September 2025, especially around NATO assets like Belgium's Kleine Brogel air base. These incursions are considered a serious threat because they could be used for espionage or to test defenses ahead of potential attacks, raising alarms about national security.
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How are European countries responding to drone spying attempts?
European nations are ramping up their counter-drone measures, including improved detection systems and stricter security protocols. The European Commission has proposed new regulations to enhance anti-drone technology, and countries like Belgium and Germany are calling for coordinated national responses to these threats.
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Could these drone activities impact NATO security?
Yes, the repeated drone incursions near NATO assets like the U.S. nuclear weapons at Kleine Brogel pose a direct threat to NATO security. These activities could be testing vulnerabilities or preparing for future hostile actions, prompting NATO to increase surveillance and defensive measures across member countries.
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What makes these drone operations so sophisticated?
The drones involved are reportedly highly advanced, capable of changing radio frequencies to evade detection. Belgian officials have noted that jamming systems failed because the drones tested different frequencies, indicating a high level of technical skill and planning behind these incursions.
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Are these drone threats likely to increase in the future?
Given the recent surge in drone sightings and the increasing sophistication of these devices, experts believe such threats are likely to grow. Countries will need to invest more in counter-drone technology and intelligence to prevent future disruptions and protect critical infrastructure.