Minister Theo Francken and Governor Carina Van Cauter visit ABC
19 May 2026
ABC welcomed Belgian Minister of Defence and Foreign Trade Theo Francken and Governor of East Flanders Carina Van Cauter today at its site in Ghent for a company visit. During the visit, both guests were given insight into ABC’s innovative technologies, production capabilities, and the role ABC plays within the Belgian defence and manufacturing industry.
The visit forms part of a broader introduction to innovative companies in the Ghent region and provided an opportunity to highlight the importance of entrepreneurship, industrial anchoring, and technological innovation in Belgium. It also illustrated how ABC contributes to critical applications and defence solutions through reliable and high-performance power generation technologies.
Innovation was at the core of the visit. The delegation was introduced to the engine portfolio, including the D36, DZ, and E23 Evolve platforms, with a strong focus on fuel flexibility and emissions reduction. In addition, the dual-fuel methanol solutions and BeHydro technology were presented, featuring 100% hydrogen and dual-fuel hydrogen combustion engines supporting the maritime sector in its transition towards low- and zero-carbon emissions.
The importance of a strong Belgian manufacturing industry and a resilient supply chain was also emphasised. More than 85% of engine components are produced within the ABC technology group. This ensures quality, reliability, and strategic autonomy, which are essential for defence and other critical sectors.
In this context, reference was also made to the recent Belgian economic mission to Türkiye, where ABC’s technologies and engines were presented in a maritime setting. During this mission, a contract was signed for the re-engining of a vessel for the Turkish Navy, in the presence of Jean-Christophe Van Acker, Sales Manager at ABC.
“A strong manufacturing industry forms the backbone of our strategic autonomy. By anchoring our activities firmly in Europe and developing and producing a significant share of our engine components within the group, we build technological innovation as well as a secure and reliable supply chain that is crucial for defence and critical industries,” said Tim Berckmoes, CEO of ABC Engines.
ABC looks back with great appreciation on the visit of Theo Francken and Carina Van Cauter and thanks them for their interest in Belgian industry, innovation, and sustainable technology.
Anglo Belgian Corporation
We power your future
