For decades, we reaped the benefits of the so-called peace dividend, neglecting investment in defence. As a result, it has left us unprepared for a sustained military challenge.
Despite massive efforts over the last two years to ramp up production, in particular armaments, air defence, ammunition and missiles. The European defence industry is nowhere near matching the output of Russia’s war economy.
We need to spend more and spend better
The reality is simple: Europe must spend more on defence, and we must spend better. During the Cold War, European nations routinely spent over 3% of GDP on defence.
Today, this level of investment is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Without it, we are exposed to further aggression.
Support European-made defence products
European defence spending must prioritise European products. This is not just an economic issue, it is a matter of strategic independence.
Relying on external suppliers in times of crisis weakens our security of supply and our ability to respond effectively to threats. More European defence autonomy is essential if we are to control our future security and maintain resilience in times of conflict.
Industry needs long-term planning
Defence companies cannot build the necessary capacities overnight.
Governments must commit towards long-term defence investment plans that allow industry to invest in the necessary production capacities, personnel, technologies, and supply chains.
European defence industrial output targets should guide this investment, ensuring we meet both national and continental security needs. Predictability and sustained demand will help build the urgently needed European defence ecosystem.
The EU must lead, but member states must act
The EU’s recent Defence Industrial Strategy is a step in the right direction, but it must be backed by real and substantial commitments from member states.
The appointment of a dedicated EU Commissioner for Defence and Space signals growing recognition of the importance of this issue.
We need, however, concrete action, and we need it now, including an ambitious EU defence budget under the next Multiannual Financial Framework. This is the time to ensure that the EU’s financial priorities reflect the critical importance of defence.
Now is the time to act
As Europe braces for current and future challenges, from potential shifts in US foreign policy to growing threats from authoritarian states, the case for bold, coordinated action on defence has never been clearer. It is not just about helping Ukraine; it is about securing Europe’s future.
We cannot wait any longer. Europe must spend more, collaborate more, and ensure that its defence sector can meet the demands of the dangerous world we face.
Source link : https://www.euractiv.com/section/global-europe/opinion/europe-must-prepare-to-defend-itself-before-it-is-too-late/
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Publish date : 2024-10-29 06:02:00
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