Montana Aerospace visited by Belgian Minister of Defense and Foreign Trade Theo Francken
Asco Industries in light of national defense ambitions
Montana Aerospace division Asco Industries (Asco), headquartered in Zaventem, Belgium, was honored to welcome Belgian Minister of Defense and Foreign Trade Theo Francken to its Zaventem facilities today. The visit took place in the context of Belgium’s evolving Defence Technological and Industrial Base (DTIB) strategy and NATO’s landmark 5% defense spending agreement, as recently endorsed by all member states, including Belgium.
Highlighting strategic partnerships
The minister’s visit underscores the growing importance of partnerships between the Belgian defense and advanced design and manufacturing leaders such as Asco, whose specialized components play a vital role in global aerospace and defense programs, including the 5th Generation F-35 fighter jet, the A400M and KC-390 military transport aircraft.
“We are honored by the visit of Minister Francken. His visit highlights the critical importance of strong partnerships between the aerospace industry and governments“, says Kai Arndt, Co-CEO of Montana Aerospace.
Theo Francken was greeted by Asco CEO Jérôme Morhet and Head of Business Development Alec Detournay. The delegation took a comprehensive tour of key production and research areas. During the visit, the minister received a close look at various critical programs under the Essential Security Interest (ESI) and Defence-related Research Action (DEFRA) initiatives:
- F-35 horizontal tail metallic sub-assemblies under the strategic BeLightning Joint Venture
- Various F35 and A400M complex machined components and sub-assemblies
- Engineering & R&D, including 6th generation aircraft initiatives and automated production systems
- Fully automated surface treatment line, where Registration Evaluation Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) compliant defense manufacturing processes were highlighted. The REACH Regulation ensures a high level of protection of human health and the environment against harmful substances.
The visit concluded with a photo moment in front of a F-35 demo Bulkhead, symbolizing the critical role Asco plays in 5th generation air power.
Innovation and sustainability in Defense
Minister Francken’s visit aligns with the newly unveiled “Strategic Vision Defense 2040”, Belgium’s long-term defense vision. The strategic plan emphasizes innovation, sovereignty, and industrial cooperation, with the F-35 program and upcoming 6th-gen platforms playing pivotal roles. Belgium’s commitment to the NATO 5% principle further strengthens the role of domestic industry in delivering technologically advanced and sustainable defense capabilities.
Asco, a key contributor to European and transatlantic defense supply chains, actively integrates ESG principles into its operations. During the tour, it was showcased how defense production can align with sustainability goals, supporting both national security and responsible manufacturing.
“Investing in defense means investing in our industry, in technological anchoring, and in high-quality jobs here in Belgium. Asco is a prime example of how innovation, manufacturing excellence, and sustainability can come together in a strategic sector,” said Minister Theo Francken.
“As a key contributor to the A400M and F-35 program, Asco holds a unique position to support Belgium’s ambition to strengthen its defense industry. Our proven capabilities make us a strategic partner in the growth of Belgium’s defense capabilities and production capacity“, says Jérôme Morhet, CEO of Asco Industries.
This visit reinforces Asco’s dedication to supporting Belgium’s DTIB modernization while promoting innovation, engineering excellence, and sustainable industrial practices.