Belgian Government has approved a €1,1 billion purchase of six new-build mine countermeasures vessels (MCMV) on 26 January. The order will be awarded together with the Dutch Navy, which is also purchasing six similar vessels. Belgium will lead the project. 

These new vessels will make maximum use of unmanned systems on, under and above water to detect and destroy mines. With these unmanned systems, the search for mines can be carried out more safely and faster compared to the current procedures. 

Belgium is also planning the purchase of two new frigates. The Netherlands, which will also order two frigates of the same type, will take the lead in this program.