Brussels is in full motion to strengthen European defense, as the “27” agreed to support the EU’s defense industry, ahead of the upcoming European Summit.
After lengthy negotiations, the European Council and the European Parliament reached a compromise regarding the preference for European defense industries, a proposal mainly promoted by France.
The compromise stipulates that the cost of components produced outside the EU will not exceed 35% of total investment costs, aiming to strengthen European weapons production.
No reference to Turkey
Currently, approximately 60% of arms purchases in the EU come from companies outside Europe, mainly from the US. The European Parliament secured financial participation from third countries, such as the United Kingdom and Canada, while no reference was made to Turkey, which had expressed interest in participation.
Responding to related reports about German pressure on Greece, the Commission clarified: “We take our member states’ concerns very seriously. We have established safeguards to ensure that no third country can violate the interests of a member state or the EU.”
Drone wall and new European shields
Meanwhile, the Commission presented the 2030 roadmap for defense and security, which includes four key initiatives. Among these, the European “wall” of unmanned aircraft (drones), the European air defense shield, as well as the space shield for protecting European territory.
The new anti-drone network will cover all EU borders, thus responding to concerns of countries like Greece and Italy about the need for equal protection of all wings of Europe.
The new structure will also contribute to addressing hybrid threats, such as the weaponization of migration and international organized crime.
Source: Deutsche Welle
