Belgium boosts Ukraine support with £487m military aid package
Belgian authorities have announced another aid package for Ukraine. This time, the package is set to prepare the army fighting Russia with very necessary artillery shells and hundreds of LMV Lynx vehicles among other supplies.
Belgian Defence Minister Ludivine Dedonder stated that the government has approved additional aid to Ukraine amounting to £349 million. She highlighted that as a result, total support for Ukraine in 2024 will reach approximately £487 million.
Equipment from Belgium for Ukraine. New aid package
Details shared reveal that the latest tranche will include artillery shells, reconnaissance drones, LMV Lynx vehicles, and even mine destroyers. The latter is part of a collaborative effort between the Belgian and Dutch governments.
The Belgian authorities have not specified which exact type of ammunition will be included. However, it was mentioned that it would form the largest part of the new aid package. This ammunition will come from Belgium's stocks and international purchases. Before, Belgium has supplied front-line units with, among other things, AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles and 105 mm caliber artillery shells, utilised by Ukrainian forces in tanks (including some Leopards and M-55S).
It's speculated that Belgium may supply similar aid as before, though there are indications it might include 155 mm caliber shells this time. This size is standard in NATO weaponry and critical for use in howitzers, which are being supplied to the front from the West, including Polish Krabs, German PzH 2000, Slovak Zuzana 2, and French CAESARs.
About 300 LMV Lynx vehicles for Ukraine
The LMV Lynx vehicles, long in service with the Belgian army, are set to be replaced by newer models. However, they continue to be a significant form of support for Ukraine. Previously supplied by Belgium, this time around, approximately 300 units are expected to be sent to the front.
The LMV Lynx is a light tactical multi-purpose vehicle, manufactured in Italy, featuring 4x4 drive and an engine with over 240 HP, capable of reaching speeds of up to 129 km/h (approximately 80 mph).
The vehicle's weight can vary depending on the version, armour, and fitted equipment. The LMV Lynx can be equipped with a gun station that can house either a 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm caliber machine gun.
