The Port of Antwerp is Highly Vulnerable to Drone Attacks 0 50

"When someone wants to sow chaos, they attack the driving force of the country's economy. Here, unfortunately, it is the port," said the head of the port in an interview with the French news agency AFP.

"We are extremely vulnerable, and this is concerning," emphasized Vandermeeren.

In November, a troubling incident occurred at the Port of Antwerp — unidentified drones flew over it. Drones were also spotted at other sensitive locations in Belgium, raising concerns in the country.

Although Russia has not been officially blamed for these incidents, it remains under suspicion, as the Kremlin is accused of conducting a hybrid war aimed at destabilizing Europe amid the war in Ukraine.

Local authorities called for strengthening the air defense of the Port of Antwerp last year, which covers an area of 12,000 hectares and is strategically important for cargo transportation and potential military reinforcements to Europe.

Recent drone flights, also recorded near a nearby nuclear power plant, revealed weaknesses in existing defense systems.

"We saw drones, but our radars did not detect them due to the specifics of the technology used," noted Vandermeeren.

He reported that new mobile radars are expected to be delivered soon, calling it "good news." However, he added that it would take time to fully enhance the protection.

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, who served as the mayor of Antwerp from 2013 to 2025, supported the use of American Patriot missile systems to protect the port.

Even if such a plan is approved, according to Vandermeeren, the delivery of missile systems will not begin for at least five years.

Enhancing port security has become a pressing issue for ports across Europe, and NATO has clearly identified strengthening critical infrastructure as a priority in increasing defense spending over the next 10 years.

"All ports in Western Europe are more concerned about this issue than ever," emphasized the head of the Port of Antwerp.