The European Commission presented the first-ever defense-industrial strategy in the history of the European Union on March 5. It envisions closer ties with Ukraine.
This is stated in the announcement on the European Commission’s website.
The strategy outlines the challenges currently facing the European defense technological and industrial base and sets the direction for its development over the next decade.
Member states are proposed to collectively procure at least 40% of defense equipment by 2030.
Additionally, the strategy aims for the defense trade value within the EU to reach at least 35% of the block’s defense market by 2030. Moreover, it suggests achieving “steady progress” in procurement, reaching at least 50% of the EU defense procurement budget by 2030 and 60% by 2035. European officials also propose integrating a “culture of defense readiness” into policy, including a call for a review of the European Investment Bank’s credit policy this year.
The program also includes the development of closer ties with Ukraine by stimulating cooperation between the defense industries of Brussels and Kyiv. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell emphasized that “after decades of underfunding”, Europe must invest more in defense.
“This strategy marks a change in the EU’s paradigm, which is a strong player in security and defense and a better partner in line with the goals of the Strategic Compass”, he said.
At the same time, he noted that the EU will also strengthen its military support to Ukraine by enhancing its defense-industrial base.
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