The news comes amid reports that the Belgian military has to save money. In fact, the future of the Belgian armed forces in their present form is at stake. Nothing has been formally decided yet, as the news was leaked from a report composed by Defence Minister Steven Vandeput (N-VA). This report outlines the future role of the armed forces under the name 'The Strategic Plan'.

Vandeput wants to focus on the cyber aspect. Digital networks should be better protected, and the armed forces should be able to carry out a cyber attack, to deter potential attackers.

"This is important, because it allows you to deter other countries or organisations, or, if necessary, attack them. Threatening with an attack is the best defence", explains VRT journalist Jens Franssen.

The plan even goes one step further. The military secret service should take on a bigger role. Vandeput also wants to acquire drones to use for spying or surveillance tasks. These drones can be small unmanned aircraft, or the small types that are used among amateurs.