Britain is providing military support to Belgium after a series of suspected Russian drone incursions on its airspace, the new chief of the defence staff has said.
Sir Richard Knighton told the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg that his Belgian counterpart asked for assistance earlier this week and that equipment and personnel were on the way.
Brussels Airport, in Zaventem, was forced to close temporarily on Thursday night after drones were spotted nearby. They were also spotted in other locations, including a military base.
Sir Richard said it was not known for sure if the incursions were by Russia, but added it was “plausible” they had been ordered by Moscow.
In a statement, Defence Secretary John Healey said: “As hybrid threats grow, our strength lies in our alliances and our collective resolve to defend, deter and protect our critical infrastructure and airspace”.
Members of 2 Force Protection Wing, Royal Air Force are likely to be deployed, the BBC understands.
Alongside Nato allies, he added that the UK would help Belgium “by providing our kit and capability” which he said was already being deployed. On Friday the German defence ministry said it would support Belgium with anti-drone measures after a request from Brussels.
About 3,000 Brussels Airlines passengers were affected by the disruption, and the carrier said it faced “considerable costs” from cancelling or diverting dozens of flights.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and the Belgian security services have said they suspect Russia, but Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken has previously admitted there is no accompanying evidence.
Credit: bbc.com
