Belgium will supply Ukraine with 15 Gepard anti-aircraft systems as part of a €1 billion aid package
Belgium has confirmed its intention to purchase 15 Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft guns from OIP Land Systems and transfer them to Ukraine. The transfer will form part of a €1 billion military aid package approved in early April 2026, according to Armyrecognition.
The equipment in question was previously in service with the Belgian Army, was decommissioned in the 2000s and sold to a private company. Since then, the systems have been in storage for approximately two decades.
Before being transferred to Ukraine, they are to undergo refurbishment in Belgium. The purchase price, refurbishment costs and delivery dates have not been disclosed.
Decision on the supply of equipment
The purchase is being made by the state from a private owner, rather than through a direct transfer from military depots. This approach allows for the use of existing resources within the country and avoids delays associated with international procurement.
The decision to purchase was approved by Defence Minister Theo Francken. The detailed allocation of funds within the aid package, particularly regarding the Gepard, has not been made public.
At the time the decision was made, there were around 38 Gepard units remaining in OIP Land Systems’ depots, alongside other armoured vehicles.
Condition and specifications of the Gepard
As the vehicles have not been in use for a long time, refurbishment is required before they can be returned to service. This includes repairs to the engine and transmission, as well as checks on the fire control systems.
A particular challenge is the condition of the radar systems, for which components not manufactured in Belgium may be required. These will likely have to be sourced from Germany.
The Gepard is based on the Leopard 1 tank and is equipped with two 35mm cannons. The combined rate of fire is approximately 1,100 rounds per minute, and the effective target engagement range is around 4 kilometres.
The system features a detection radar with a range of up to 15 kilometres and a tracking radar for guidance. The vehicle’s maximum speed is around 65 kilometres per hour.
The system was originally designed to combat low-flying aircraft, but is now used to counter drones and cruise missiles.
Use in Ukraine
The Gepard has been in use in Ukraine since 2022 following the first deliveries from Germany. Subsequently, additional units have been supplied from other countries.
These systems are used primarily to protect infrastructure and cities from airborne threats, in particular Shahab-type drones and low-flying missiles.
The cost of intercepting targets using such systems is lower compared to missile systems, which influences their use in large-scale attacks.
The delivery of 15 additional units will expand short-range air defence capabilities and complement other systems already in service.
