Belgium prepares €412 million aid package for Ukraine

Belgium has announced a €412 million military aid package for Ukraine, including 300 IVECO Lynx LMV armored vehicles and three mine sweepers to counter Russian aggression.

Shephard Media reports.

It is noted that the new BELEUX military assistance initiative, aimed at strengthening Ukraine's military capabilities, is being implemented by Belgium and the Netherlands.

Thus, Belgium will provide basic training for Ukrainian sailors on minehunting ships, and the Netherlands will offer on-the-job training for Ukrainian crews of minehunting ships.

Iveco DV introduced the LMV 4x4 in 2001 to provide a vehicle with high off-road capability and armor protection. Typical roles for the vehicle include reconnaissance, patrol, liaison, escort and utility. Over 4,000 LMV1s have been sold to 15 various countries, including Italy, which has ordered more than 2,000.

The Narcis (M923) was launched in 1990. Developed at the end of the 20th century, these vessels specialize in detecting and clearing mines at sea. They are equipped with sophisticated sonar systems to detect mines and use various methods, including remotely operated devices, to neutralize threats.

The publication recalls that Brussels has promised to provide Ukraine with 611 million euros in military aid through 2024. About half of this amount was allocated for additional artillery ammunition.

Belgium, which holds the EU presidency, has also demonstrated its commitment to supporting Ukraine beyond military needs by being part of the Ukraine Fund, which aims to provide humanitarian aid and rebuild the most affected regions of Ukraine.