Minister wants former Audi Brussels plant for defence production site
Belgium's Defence minister, Theo Francken of N-VA, has announced plans to convert the recently closed Audi factory in Brussels into a defence production site. Speaking on Flemish public radio on Friday, he confirmed that he plans to visit the site next week with defence industry representatives.
The plant, which closed in February after 76 years, covers an area of around 57,000 m² in Forest. Francken said he had proposed the conversion plan on his second day in office, saying: "I strongly believe in this project", although its feasibility depends on Audi, defence companies and possible government support.
Job creation
Francken said the site would not be used for the production of ammunition but for other defence-related technologies. He also underlined the potential for job creation, particularly for young people in Brussels, estimating that the plant could create between 2,000 and 3,000 new jobs.
With this initiative, Belgium appears to be stepping up its efforts to strengthen its military resilience. The country currently spends around 8 billion euros a year on defence, equivalent to 1.3 per cent of GDP, with thea coalition agreement targeting the NATO benchmark of 2 per cent by 2029. However, recent geopolitical shifts are forcing the government to accelerate its plans.
The Audi plant in Brussels, 28 February 2025, the day production ceased © BELGA PHOTO TIMON RAMBOER
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