STORY
The European Commission has proposed five major cross-border defence projects intended to strengthen co-operation between member states and partner countries. The proposals are part of efforts to build European defence capacity in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine and wider security concerns.
The projects include work on drones and counter-drone systems, eastern flank surveillance, maritime and seabed defence, air and missile defence and space-based defence capabilities. The plans are intended to support long-term industrial collaboration and reduce fragmentation in European defence procurement.
The proposals will require approval from the Council of the EU. The Commission has argued that joint projects can help improve Europe’s ability to develop complex defence systems while complementing NATO priorities and strengthening the competitiveness of European industry.