Belgium Chooses Origin Robotics’ BLAZE Interceptor as Part of €50 Million Counter-Drone Initiative
Belgium Bolsters Airspace Security with Origin Robotics’ BLAZE Counter-Drone System
In a significant move to enhance its airspace security, the Belgian Ministry of Defence has selected Origin Robotics’ AI-powered BLAZE interceptor as part of a 50 million euro counter-drone package. This decision comes amidst increasing concerns over rising drone incursions near critical infrastructure, airports, and military sites throughout the country.
The Need for Enhanced Security
Recent weeks have seen a surge in drone activities that have disrupted air traffic and raised alarms regarding national security. Belgium has temporarily depended on support from its NATO allies, Germany and the United Kingdom, to manage these incursions due to its limited counter-drone resources. The choice to invest in Origin Robotics’ technology marks a crucial step toward ensuring airspace safety and reflects the urgency of the situation.
Immediate vs. Long-term Solutions
The new package aims to provide immediate resilience against aerial threats while the Belgian Ministry of Defence works on developing a comprehensive long-term strategy for counter-drone capabilities. Alongside this initiative, Defence Minister Theo Francken revealed plans for a larger 500 million euro programme focused on sustained development in anti-drone technologies.
A Statement of Confidence from Origin Robotics
Agris Kipurs, CEO and co-founder of Origin Robotics, expressed pride in the selection of BLAZE, emphasizing it as a testament to the company’s leadership in advanced autonomous defense systems. "This is a major statement of confidence," Kipurs noted. "Belgium is facing an immediate security problem and has chosen BLAZE as the solution. We are committed to delivering reliable, cost-effective, and rapidly deployable capabilities to support our NATO ally."
BLAZE: The Cutting-Edge Counter-Drone Solution
Launched in May 2025, the BLAZE interceptor is designed specifically to combat fast-moving aerial threats, such as loitering munitions and hostile drones. Its sophisticated architecture integrates radar detection, AI computer vision, and operator-approved autonomy, making it a versatile and powerful tool for air defense. Notably, the system is man-portable and rapidly deployable, ensuring it can be utilized in high-pressure situations.
The intercepts are executed through airburst fragmentation, complemented by safety features that include operator-controlled wave-off commands, enabling the system to either return or self-neutralize as necessary.
A Growing Footprint in Europe
The Belgian order for BLAZE signals a growing reliance on Origin Robotics’ systems across Europe. The company’s BEAK technology has already been deployed by the Latvian and Ukrainian Armed Forces, receiving widespread recognition through both national initiatives and European Union defense programs. This latest procurement not only boosts Belgium’s defense capabilities but also strengthens Origin Robotics’ position as a trusted supplier of autonomous aerial defense technologies.
Conclusion
As Belgium strives to reinforce its airspace security in the face of escalating drone threats, the integration of Origin Robotics’ BLAZE interceptor represents a crucial step towards establishing a safer aerial environment. With immediate investments and long-term plans underway, Belgium is gearing up to safeguard its airspace and set a precedent for other nations facing similar challenges. The future of airborne defense is rapidly evolving, and partnerships like this underscore the importance of innovation and collaboration in ensuring national security.
Stay tuned for further updates as Belgium enhances its defense strategy with the latest in autonomous technology!