Between May and July 2026, the Belgian Air Force took a step with the first international operational deployment of its MQ-9B SkyGuardian system. As part of Operation Silent Spear, an MQ-9B from the 2nd Squadron “Comet” was deployed to the naval air base of Sigonella in Sicily to support NATO operations Sea Guardian and Noble Shield.
Belgian MoD press release – Translated by Naval News
The deployment commenced on May 18, 2026, with a transfer flight between Florennes and Sigonella. The aircraft covered more than 1,520 nautical miles over France, Corsica, and Sicily in 8 hours and 4 minutes. This ferry flight is a world first for the MQ-9B; never before has an aircraft of this type independently performed an international operational deployment between two air force bases in different countries. This achievement underscores not only the endurance and reliability of the system but also its ability to operate fully integrated in European airspace.
First international operational deployment
This mission also marked the first international operational deployment of the Belgian MQ-9B. Over a period of two months, the crews of the 2nd Squadron accumulated more than 400 flight hours for the benefit of NATO. Stationed in Sigonella, but controlled from Florennes via secure satellite links, the MQ-9Bs carried out intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. These missions contributed to a better understanding of the maritime situation in the Mediterranean and strengthened cooperation between the Allied forces.
The entire deployment proceeded without technical incidents or safety issues, allowing the Belgian crews to gain valuable experience in a multinational operational environment.
A capacity that confirms her maturity
Silent Spear was the second operational deployment of the 2nd Squadron with the MQ-9B platform, following the national operation Blue Intruder. However, this mission constituted a significant milestone because it combined several firsts: the first international deployment, the first operational deployment in a direct NATO context, and the first international ferry flight ever performed by an MQ-9B.
With more than 400 flight hours over the Mediterranean, the 2nd Squadron demonstrates the growing maturity of this new capability and strengthens the Belgian contribution to NATO missions in the fields of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
Although the capacity has not yet officially reached Initial Operational Capability (IOC) status, this deployment confirms that the Belgian crews have mastered the system and are capable of operating successfully within a demanding multinational context
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