VISD builds on Flanders’ strengths and links them to federal and European capacity needs. These are translated into concrete actions through orientation roadmaps, which form the core of implementation and around which ecosystems will be developed. These ecosystems promote knowledge sharing, joint innovation, and economies of scale, creating a network that enables Flemish players to position themselves within European security and defence value chains.

The orientation roadmaps and the resources allocated to them serve as a catalyst for collaboration between government, industry, and research institutions in innovation projects and investments in security and defence. Support is provided through the services of the Government of Flanders, the existing Flemish toolbox, and specific new tools such as the Flemish Defence Fund, VISD Flagships, and the Strategic Defence-Related Basic Research Fund.

For the current legislative term, funding is allocated annually, with a growth trajectory reaching 50 million euros by 2029. In addition to financial support, we facilitate the use of existing infrastructure, the organisation of events such as the Defence Innovation Flanders Days, and a clear governance structure to steer VISD.

VISD has three broader strategic objectives:

VISD promotes technological innovation and industrial collaboration to strengthen the defence-related industry and contribute to Flemish strategic autonomy. Flanders thus becomes a reliable and relevant international partner within the European defence value chain. We also foresee the necessary investments to this end.

We create a stimulating environment in which targeted investments are made to capitalise on Flemish technology and knowledge. This is achieved by building on groundbreaking innovations in security and defence. The approach is supported by targeted policy instruments, tailored infrastructure, professional guidance, and appropriate cross-compliance.

By promoting innovation and the Flemish industry, levers are created that contribute to economic growth, employment, and the competitiveness of Flanders in security and defence.