Belgium Defence & Security: Belgium has signed a NOK10 billion NASAMS ground-based air defence contract, with the Netherlands procuring on Belgium’s behalf, as part of a push to rebuild national air defence capacity; the Belgian Air Force will be the end user and the deal draws on a wider industrial network for sensors, command, launchers and missile stocks. EU Politics & Migration: The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is now affecting many UK travellers heading to Schengen, with biometric checks in participating countries including Belgium, bringing fresh pressure on airports after earlier queue problems. International Relations: Belgium’s defence minister Theo Francken warns of a “dark winter for Europe”, citing Russia’s growing use of hybrid tactics and jet-powered drones. Environment: A Copernicus analysis says ozone pollution linked to heat, fires and dust has pushed about 40% of the world’s population into extremely high ground-level ozone levels in early 2026, with major fire events including in Belgium. Business & Tech: Opengear has secured its first European distribution deal with Ingram Micro, expanding access to its network resilience services across markets including Belgium. Sports (Belgium-linked): France beat Belgium 1-0 in Nations League action as Michael Olise scored late, while Belgium’s defence minister and air-defence deals dominate the wider news cycle.