Belgian MQ-9B uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) have been deployed abroad for the first time in support of a NATO operation providing maritime domain awareness over the Mediterranean.
On Operation Silent Spear, the General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI) UAS operated out of Sigonella Naval Air Base in Sicily to support NATO operations Sea Guardian and Noble Shield.
The drones flew themselves to Italy from Florennes in Belgium in mid-May, covering more than 1,520 nautical miles, and flying over France and Corsica en route in a flight lasting just over 8 hours.
As per the Belgian Ministry of Defence (MoD): “This… [transit] represents a world first for an MQ-9B: no aircraft of this type had ever carried out such an autonomous international operational deployment between two air bases located in different countries.”
Across the next two months the aircraft logged over 400 flight hours supporting NATO operations. Priorities included building maritime situational awareness, and tracking irregular migration and illegal activities such as smuggling.
The MoD statement noted: “The entire deployment proceeded without technical incidents or security problems, allowing the Belgian crews to gain valuable experience in a multinational operational environment.
“Silent Spear marks the 2nd Squadron’s second operational engagement with the MQ-9B platform, following the domestic Operation Blue Intruder. However, this mission represents a significant milestone as it combines several firsts: first international deployment, first operational engagement directly supporting NATO, and first international… flight ever conducted by an MQ-9B.”
The MQ-9B UAS procured by Belgium are the SkyGuardian variants and are operated by its air force. The Belgian Air Force aims to achieve Initial Operational Capability (IOC) by the fourth quarter of 2026, with Full Operational Capability (FOC) slated for mid-2027.
Belgium initially purchased two systems (four aircraft). However, the Government has since earmarked €504m to expand the fleet with a third system and future integration of specialized maritime search kits to give the UAS full SeaGuardian capabilities.
- You can read more details on the Belgian MoD website
