The Belgian Defence Ministry has appointed a new general responsible for the accelerated integration of drones within the Belgian military.
The newly established position, 'Chief of the Drones and Innovation Taskforce,' will be filled by General Michel Van Strythem, who has been leading the Defence Cyber Command. This announcement was made by Defence Minister Theo Francken (N-VA) on Friday after the General Committee meeting, which oversees the selection and promotion of top officers in Defence.
"Drones play a crucial role in modern warfare today," Francken stated in a press release. "Unlike a few years ago, we see how quickly technological advantages shift. It is essential for Defence to swiftly integrate drones both tactically and strategically. This is a race against time that we must win."
Major General Van Strythem will be promoted to Lieutenant General on 26 June, elevating him from two stars to three. He will oversee the doctrine, training, interoperability, and logistics of drones within the armed forces.
Colonel Pierre Ciparisse, currently Van Strythem’s deputy, will take over leadership of Cyber Command and will be promoted to Major General.
The minister highlighted that this appointment is part of a broader Defence strategy focused on technological innovation and international operability.
Changes in ranks also include a shift in the Air Force, as Major General Pilot Geert De Decker, the current commander, will be promoted to Lieutenant General in March 2026. He will then assume the role of Deputy Chief of Staff for Readiness & Operations.
The current Colonel Pilot Bruno Beeckmans will become the new Air Force commander and will be promoted to Major General.
