Europe reopens its depots. Belgium has officially confirmed a decision to purchase 15 Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft systems for subsequent transfer to Ukraine. La Libre reported this information, citing L’Echo, following a request submitted to the office of Defense Minister Theo Francken.
The Gepard was originally developed to engage helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, but today it is effectively used as a versatile drone interceptor. A key role in this capability is played by its main armament: two 35 mm Oerlikon KDA autocannons, capable of an extremely high rate of fire with up to 1,100 rounds per minute (550 per barrel), as per Army Inform.
At first glance, this may not seem particularly powerful, but it is precisely this caliber combined with the high rate of fire that makes the Gepard highly effective at intercepting small aerial targets.
Second life of Gepard systems
According to available data, the armored systems will be repurchased from the private company OIP, a subsidiary of Israel’s Elbit Systems. Before being transferred to Ukraine, all units will undergo full refurbishment and repair to restore combat readiness.
These systems previously served in the Belgian armed forces but were phased out in the 2000s as part of broader defense modernization efforts.
From depots to private ownership, and back to war
After decommissioning, the Gepard systems were acquired by Sabiex, which was later absorbed by OIP. The equipment remained there until the new decision to restore and transfer it to Ukraine.
In practical terms, this represents the return to service of systems that had been out of operational use for decades.
Returning to 21st-century war
According to official data, the Belgian armed forces once operated 54 Gepard systems, all of which were eventually fully withdrawn from service.
The exact cost of repurchase and refurbishment has not been disclosed. However, the project is seen as part of a broader effort to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense capabilities amid sustained drone and missile attacks.
