The European Economic and Social Committee backs stronger European defence industry, calls for more funding and public support

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has given a cautious green light to Europe’s revamped defence strategy in three opinions, all emphasising the need for a long-term, strategic approach. However, concerns linger about its financial viability and public buy-in.

The EESC adopted three opinions in May offering a comprehensive analysis of Europe’s revamped defence strategy. While endorsing its long-term vision in its opinion on the European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS), concerns are expressed in the opinion on the European Defence Industry Programme about short-term implementation and funding. A separate opinion entitled Drone industry: a case study for strategic autonomy, advocates for a domestic production roadmap.

Moving on from emergency mode

The EESC welcomes the European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS) as a significant step towards a stronger European defence posture. It particularly applauds the shift from reactive measures to a long-term, structural plan. Central to this plan is prioritising European suppliers for Europe’s defence needs, reducing dependence on external actors. The EESC also advocates for partnerships with countries that share Europe’s values in order to achieve the strategy’s objectives.

Can Europe afford its defence dreams?

Despite backing the EDIS, the Committee casts doubt on its financial viability. It deems the current €1.5 billion budget for the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) inadequate. The EESC opinion on the EDIP recommends a medium-term funding increase to support the programme’s goals beyond just Ukraine’s immediate needs.

To ensure long-term stability for the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB), the EESC calls for a comprehensive plan outlining increased arms spending and procurement over time. This would allow businesses to confidently invest in European defence production and support production plans for military equipment.

The EESC sees additional opportunities beyond just military capabilities. The opinion suggests promoting synergies between the defence and civilian sectors, particularly with small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and start-ups. This could lead to technological advancements that benefit both military and civilian applications.

A public relations challenge

The EESC identifies public perception as a potential roadblock for Europe’s defence plan. The Committee warns that a strong defence strategy in a democratic society needs public understanding and support. Failure to address public concerns, the EESC suggests, could be the Achilles’ heel of the entire strategy. For this reason, the Committee urges the European Commission to step up communication efforts, explaining the challenges of joint defence financing and its role in building common security.

Drones take centre stage

The EESC highlights drone technology as a game-changer for European strategic autonomy, and advocates for a tight connection between the European Drone Strategy and the EDIS, fostering a domestic drone production industry through consistent procurement contracts.

In its opinion on the drone strategy, the Committee further stresses the need for collaboration and innovation, leveraging legislation like the AI Act and Chips Act to bolster national security, economic growth and strategic independence. It recommends a ‘Strategic Drone Technology Roadmap’ to guide advancements in critical drone technologies and dual-use drone systems.

A rocky road ahead

The three EESC opinions highlight the importance of a well-funded, strategically focused European defence industry with strong funding and public backing. The success of the EDIS hinges on the European Union convincing citizens that a strong defence strategy is not just about foreign policy, but about protecting their way of life. The Committee emphasises collaboration, innovation and a focus on both military and civilian applications of technology to ensure a secure and prosperous Europe.