Eighteen European Union member states, including Greece, have submitted applications to join programs under the SAFE defense instrument, with a total value exceeding €127 billion. According to today’s announcement by the European Commission, the countries that submitted applications include Greece, Cyprus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, and Finland. The SAFE instrument (“Security and Defence Action for Europe”) has the capacity to provide up to €150 billion in loans, aimed at strengthening member states’ national military spending.
Member states have until July 31 to first express their interest and submit applications for loans from the SAFE instrument, and then will have an additional four months to detail the type of projects, their partners, and the budget for their projects.
EU: When does the deadline expire for SAFE program applications
The European Commission notes that the “timely” expression of interest from member states will allow it to assess demand and prepare for capital raising from financial markets. The deadline for formal application submissions under SAFE is November 30, 2025.
Defence and Space Commissioner Andrius Kubilius stated: “The strong interest in SAFE, with at least €127 billion in potential defense procurement, demonstrates the EU’s unity and ambition in security and defense. We remain committed to supporting EU countries in their efforts to strengthen European security. SAFE represents our collective commitment to enhance our defense readiness for a safer and more united future.”
SAFE is part of a broader program presented in late March by the European Commission, which aims to mobilize up to €800 billion for the re-armament of the European continent.
SAFE serves as a key EU instrument for strengthening resilience and security, supporting investments in areas such as defense, dual-use infrastructure, cyber capabilities, and strategic supply chains.
