Faced with rising security threats, Europe urgently needs a unified defence funding strategy. In response to a request from the upcoming Polish EU Presidency, the EESC has adopted an opinion calling for bold action: increased investment in modern systems, deepened NATO cooperation, and greater funding within the EU’s financial framework.

Europe’s security risks are growing, exposing its reliance on external defence suppliers – 78% of the EUR 75 billion spent by EU countries on defence procurement over one year went to non-EU suppliers. Strengthening the European defence technological and industrial base (EDTIB) is crucial to reducing this dependency.

‘The EU’s defence funding mechanisms must be overhauled to meet contemporary challenges,’ explains rapporteur of the EESC opinion on Defence Funding in the EU, Marcin Nowacki. ‘Existing budgetary rules limit military spending, and while initiatives like the European Defence Fund (EDF) and the European Peace Facility (EPF) represent progress, they remain insufficient to address the scale of current threats.’

NATO cooperation is essential for interoperability and a unified strategy. Joint procurement, cyber and space security partnerships, and the IRIS2 satellite project will enhance resilience. Defence funding must align with broader EU priorities without compromising social and environmental goals. Strategic investment, innovation and long-term planning are key to ensuring Europe’s security and autonomy. (tk)