The Belgian Air Force tested the capability to intercept drones using inexpensive 70 mm FZ275 missiles fired from F-16 fighter jets.
This was reported by the country’s Defense Ministry, which also released a video demonstrating the weapon’s use.
These laser-guided missiles are considered an effective and affordable solution for countering such unmanned aerial vehicles.
The ministry stated that the tests were conducted in close cooperation between the army, the navy, and Thales Belgium, the manufacturer of the FZ275 missiles.
Judging by the video, one of the fighter jets carried two pods under its wing, each designed to hold seven missiles. During the test firings, missiles without warheads were used.
De Luchtmacht testte in Lombardsijde een capaciteit tegen middelgrote aanvalsdrones. In samenwerking met de Landmacht, de Marine en Thales Belgium: FZ275‑raketten van 70 mm zonder lading op #F16, als efficiënte en betaalbare oplossing tegen de UAS‑dreiging pic.twitter.com/So7Afwy3XK— Belgian Defence (@BelgiumDefence) April 30, 2026
The main focus was on testing the ability of Belgian F-16 fighter jets to detect, track, and engage medium-sized drones.
Such UAVs can pose a threat, in particular, to military facilities and critical infrastructure.
FZ275 missiles in Ukraine
70 mm FZ275 LGR anti-drone missiles from Thales Belgium are actively being used by the Ukrainian military to shoot down Russian drones. The supply of these missiles is funded, in particular, by Germany as part of military aid.
In 2026, the company expects to increase its annual production capacity to 10,000 missiles, which will significantly boost supply capabilities.
Last year, it was announced that Thales Belgium, in partnership with JSC Ukroboronprom, will establish a joint venture in Ukraine, opening up additional opportunities for the localization of weapons production. The rockets will be equipped with a specially designed warhead for effective countermeasures against drones.
As a reminder, the Ukrainian Armed Forces received combat modules designed to launch five 70 mm FZ275 or FZ123 missiles manufactured by Thales Belgium to counter Russian drones.
