New EU defence industrial package is an important step to build a safer Europe

The Renew Europe Group in the European Parliament welcomes today’s adoption by the European Commission of a defence industrial strategy and defence industry programme, intended to support the competitiveness and readiness of the block’s defence industry.

Since Russia started its war of aggression against Ukraine, our political group has been consistently calling for a strong and comprehensive EU strategy on defence, adapted to the current security context.

Some of our proposed measures, such as increased EU and national spending, new forms of financing our defence industry to build security and resilience, cooperation with like-minded international partners have been included in the Commission’s package, but the EU must be bolder in its actions and go for a true Defence Single Market.

Renew Europe MEP, Nathalie Loiseau (Horizons, France), Chair of the Subcommittee on Security and Defence, said:

“The presentation of a defence investment strategy shows that the European Commission is starting to take defence issues seriously. This is one more step towards the necessary rearmament of Europe. But its effects will only be felt in the medium term. We still need to fully respond to the urgency of increasing our military support for Ukraine, which is essential to the security of Europe.”

Ending unanimity in EU foreign policy decision and a more responsive, agile and effective Europe when it comes to mobilisation of resources to face urgent security challenges are essential. As is developing EU’s capacity to fight effectively against the increasing hybrid attacks and Member States’ coordination in this field.