Belgium is exploring a significant industrial expansion into the production of American-made weaponry, with plans underway for a co-production facility to manufacture components of the AMRAAM missile. This project, designed to support the government’s vision for the F-35 fighter jet program, would involve a strategic industrial cooperation with Raytheon, the branch of RTX responsible for the missile’s manufacture.
A Strategic Partnership with FN Herstal
According to US diplomat Bill White, FN Herstal is likely to serve as the primary Belgian partner for this initiative. The project is described as a potential tender worth several billion dollars, which could transform Belgium’s role in the global defense supply chain.
If the project succeeds, Belgium could move beyond producing components for the missiles it purchases for its own use. White suggests the country could potentially manufacture AMRAAM components for the global market, bringing substantial industrial and financial returns.
The Critical Role of the AMRAAM
The significance of the AMRAAM missile is tied directly to Belgium’s aviation and defense infrastructure. Raytheon has noted that the AMRAAM is the only radar-guided air-to-air missile authorized for use on the F-35, of which Belgium has ordered 45 units.
Beyond the F-35, the AMRAAM is also compatible with the NASAMS (Norwegian advanced surface to air missile system). Belgium recently formalized its intention to acquire ten of these air defense batteries through a contract signed with Norway in March during a state visit by King Philippe.
Industrial Offsets and Economic Stakes
Belgium already has established industrial agreements surrounding the F-35. In October 2025, an agreement with Pratt & Whitney tasked BMT Aerospace in Flanders and Safran Aero Boosters in Wallonia with producing critical components for the F135 engine.
Other firms, including Sabca, Sabena Engineering, and Orizio, are also active within the F-35 program. However, industry sources have indicated that the industrial returns from the program have been more limited than Belgian authorities had hoped when the initial purchase was made in 2018.
Diplomatic Ties and Future Outlook
The push for co-production coincides with strong diplomatic momentum. Bill White recently facilitated a meeting between US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken, whom White described as the “tiger of Belgium” for his ability to secure business for the country.
While the US remains the primary arms supplier for Europe, the pursuit of such deals often serves as a point of leverage in discussions regarding European defense sovereignty. If the AMRAAM competition is won, it could potentially lead to thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions of euros in investment.
Looking ahead, the success of this facility may depend on the ongoing competition for the tender. If finalized, it is likely to further cement the defense ties between the US and Belgium, potentially serving as a model for other European nations utilizing the F-35 and NASAMS platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Belgian company is expected to lead the AMRAAM co-production?
FN Herstal is likely to be the primary Belgian partner in the industrial cooperation with Raytheon.
Why is the AMRAAM missile specifically important for Belgium’s F-35 fleet?
The AMRAAM is the only radar-guided air-to-air missile authorized to fly on the F-35 aircraft.
What other defense systems in Belgium use the AMRAAM?
The AMRAAM is used in the NASAMS (Norwegian advanced surface to air missile system) batteries, ten of which Belgium intends to acquire from Norway.
Do you believe industrial co-production is the most effective way for European nations to balance defense needs with economic sovereignty?
