Belgian minister: Türkiye, Ukraine set example for changing warfare

Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken stated that Türkiye and Ukraine are leading the transformation of modern warfare, arguing that other countries must adapt to the changing nature of conflict by following their example in drone technology, artificial intelligence, and defense systems.

NATO doctrine being reshaped

Speaking to Anadolu during Belgium’s economic mission to Türkiye, Francken said NATO’s military doctrine is being reshaped by lessons from the war in Ukraine and developments in Türkiye’s defense industry. “There are two countries that really understand this – Ukraine and Türkiye. All other countries have to follow,” he said. He described the Belgian delegation’s visit as the largest trade and economic mission in the history of bilateral relations, with more than 100 meetings held in Istanbul and Ankara and numerous agreements signed, including defense cooperation deals.

Turkish defense industry ‘mind-blowing’

Francken highlighted visits to Turkish defense firms, including Baykar and military shipyards, noting that Turkish companies in innovation, R&D, AI, drones, and counter-drone systems are transforming NATO’s strategic outlook. Describing Turkish defense technologies as “mind-blowing,” he said NATO exercises and battlefield developments in Ukraine have shown the growing importance of drone warfare. “We need to change our way of fighting as well, because otherwise others are training continuously. We have to be ready,” he said. He noted that Belgium has appointed its first general responsible for drone innovation and is working on a counter-drone program worth over $1 billion, with opportunities for Turkish companies.

Dozens of agreements and EU cooperation

Francken said 37 agreements and letters of intent were signed in Istanbul, including a defense ministry deal on operational training and demining efforts in the Strait of Hormuz and the Black Sea. He also voiced support for modernizing the EU-Türkiye Customs Union and for Ankara’s inclusion in the EU’s SAFE loan mechanism. On the 2026 NATO summit in Ankara, he called for unity and increased defense production capacity. “United we stand, divided we fall,” he said. Türkiye continues to strengthen its defense ties with European NATO allies while advancing its indigenous military technologies.