A Reliable Friend and Ally

Shared History and Values

The U.S. and Belgium share a long history of partnership, dating back to the founding of Belgium in 1830. The two countries have stood together in times of war and peace, supporting each other, and upholding their shared democratic values. Belgium will be forever grateful for the sacrifices made by American soldiers in Europe during WWI and WWII. Annual joint commemorations like the Battle of the Bulge reflect this enduring friendship. It provides a strong basis for continued cooperation on global challenges such as security and economic development.

Shared Security and Global Leadership

Belgium is at the heart of Europe geographically, economically, politically, and culturally. A founding member of the European Union and NATO, Belgium has always contributed to greater stability and economic prosperity in the world.

NATO and International Security 

As a steadfast ally, we actively contribute to NATO missions and international security efforts. Belgium hosts key NATO infrastructure and actively supports international operations. The Port of Antwerp-Bruges plays a critical logistical role for the U.S. military and other NATO allies. Belgium has been an ally of the U.S. in Afghanistan, Libya, in NATO operations and in the Coalition to Defeat ISIS in Iraq and Syria. A stronger EU means a stronger NATO: Belgium has always advocated more burden sharing and a more robust European defense. The new Belgian government has decided to accelerate increased defense spending.

Belgian Aid to Ukraine

Belgium has committed nearly $2.5bn in direct military, humanitarian, and reconstruction aid to Ukraine – and approximately $1.14bn via the EU and NATO. A new direct aid package of over $1.1bn, annually from 2025 to 2029, has been announced. Military aid includes F-16 support, weapons, ammunition, and training for Ukrainian troops and pilots. Belgium participates in capability coalitions to support Ukraine's defense and provides targeted aid for demining, supporting critical energy infrastructure, and medical rehabilitation.
 

Belgium as an Important Customer of the U.S. Defense Industry

Between 2020 and 2024, Belgium has purchased over $6.8bn worth of U.S. equipment, including: 

• F35 fighter jets
• Medium Altitude Long Endurance MQ-9B drones
• Various types of ammunition
• 322 Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (Belgium is OshKosh’s largest European customer)
• Purchases for the F16 in the framework of support to Ukraine
• Communication and information systems
• Access to the U.S. satellite system
• An extensive list of spare parts, night vision equipment, and parachutes.

Combating Terrorism Together 

Belgium is a frontline partner in counterterrorism, working with the U.S. on intelligence sharing, counterterrorism measures, and efforts to disrupt terrorist networks. Belgium's experience in addressing domestic terrorism threats provides valuable insights and strengthens the U.S.-Belgium partnership in these critical areas:

• The strategic partnership in Africa
• The fight against ISIS 
• Best practices in combating violent extremism at home.  

Combating Drug Trafficking 

Belgium and the U.S. are ramping up efforts to counter synthetic drug trafficking, sharing best practices and intelligence to disrupt operations run by transnational cartels, particularly those trafficking cocaine and synthetic drugs from Latin America into our countries.