In an era marked by escalating global tensions and multifaceted security threats, EU Institutions and Governments evoke a European defence. But where we are?
Is there a genuine unanimous will to create common military structures, a common army, a common industrial base, and, finally, a common foreign policy? Are these just slogans, or is there a clear intention with specific objectives, timelines, and financial resources? Will it be a carbon copy of NATO or the European arm of NATO?”
This article explores the current state of European Defence, examining recent strategic initiatives, the roles of member states, and the European Commission’s plans to ensure a resilient and autonomous defence framework.
by Adam Jacobs – 6 MIN READING
Brussels, September 2024 – In the face of escalating global security challenges, EU has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing its defence and security framework.
The Council of the European Union, in its recent conclusions dated May 27, 2024 on EU Defence and Security Policy (Document 9225/24 GD), outlined a comprehensive strategy aimed at bolstering EU’s defence capabilities, supporting Ukraine, and fostering deeper cooperation among member states.
This strategic pivot comes at a time when geopolitical tensions are intensifying, with Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine and destabilizing activities in the Middle East posing significant threats to regional and global stability.
A Unified Response to Emerging Threats
The EU’s security landscape has been profoundly reshaped by the convergence of multiple threats, including Russia’s war in Ukraine, terrorist activities by groups like Hamas, and increased interference by authoritarian regimes. These challenges have underscored the necessity for a robust, unified defence strategy that can adapt to the evolving threat environment. The Council’s conclusions emphasize the need for enhanced defence readiness, increased sovereignty, and improved civilian and military preparedness to safeguard the EU’s interests and uphold the rules-based international order.
Support for Ukraine: A Pillar of EU Defence Policy
Today, central to the EU’s defence strategy is its support for Ukraine. EU remains steadfast in its commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, pledging comprehensive political, financial, economic, humanitarian, military, and diplomatic assistance. Key initiatives include the Ukraine Assistance Fund (UAF) under the European Peace Facility (EPF), which aims to address the immediate military needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Additionally, the European Union Military Assistance Mission (EUMAM) is on track to train 60,000 Ukrainian soldiers by the summer of 2024, while the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM) continues to support Ukrainian law enforcement and security sector reforms.
Key funding includes: EU Budget allocations, emergency funding, revenue from sanctions agains Russia.
The EU Industrial Base
Recognizing the critical role of a strong defence industrial base, the Council has outlined measures to strengthen the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB). The new European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS), presented by the European Commission in March 2024, seeks to increase defence expenditures, foster innovation, and reduce strategic dependencies.
By leveraging the European Defence Agency (EDA), born in 2004, and initiatives like the EDA’s Hub for European Defence Innovation, born in 2022, the EU aims to enhance its defence readiness and ensure the availability of cutting-edge defence technologies.
The EU Military Cooperation
Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) remains a cornerstone of the EU’s defence strategy, facilitating deeper defence cooperation among member states.
The ongoing strategic review aims to enhance PESCO’s effectiveness beyond 2025, focusing on operational readiness, interoperability, and capability development.
By aligning PESCO projects with the EU’s broader defence initiatives, the Council seeks to create a more strategic and effective defence cooperation framework that can respond swiftly to emerging security challenges.
The EU Military Mobility
The establishment in 2025 of the EU Rapid Deployment Capacity (EU RDC) will mark a milestone in the EU’s ability to conduct swift and coordinated military responses, although limited to 5,000 soldiers.
Coupled with the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC), born in 2017, the EU is poised to manage complex operations efficiently. Furthermore, the Military Mobility Pledge 2024 underscores the importance of enhancing military mobility across air, land, and sea, ensuring the rapid movement of forces and equipment within and beyond the EU.
This initiative is supported by substantial investments in dual-use infrastructure and streamlined transport procedures, facilitating a credible and rapid response to crises.
EU Fights Cyber and Hybrid Threats
In an increasingly digital and interconnected world, the Council has highlighted the necessity of strengthening resilience against cyber and hybrid threats.
The establishment of the EU Cyber Defence Coordination Centre (EUCDCC), by 2025, aims to enhance coordination and cooperation in cyber defence, while dedicated toolboxes are being developed to counter foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI).
These measures are complemented by efforts to bolster intelligence capabilities and strategic communication, ensuring the EU remains resilient against sophisticated cyber threats.
EU Cooperation in Space, Maritime, and Air
The Council’s conclusions (see above) also address the critical importance of domain-specific strategies in space, maritime, and air domains.
The implementation of the Space Strategy for Security and Defence seeks to safeguard space systems and services vital for security and defence.
In the maritime domain, initiatives like EUNAVFOR operation ASPIDES and Coordinated Maritime Presences (CMP) in the Gulf of Guinea and the North-western Indian Ocean are enhancing maritime security and promoting international law.
Meanwhile, the development of a dedicated EU airspace strategy aims to ensure safe and secure access to increasingly congested and contested European airspace.
Integrating Climate and Security
Acknowledging the intersection between climate change and security, the Council has called for the integration of climate considerations into defence strategies. This includes deploying environmental advisors to CSDP missions, enhancing energy efficiency within armed forces, and supporting the green transition through sustainable defence practices.
These efforts are aimed at reducing operational burdens, improving sustainability, and mitigating the impacts of climate change on security and defence.
EU, U.N. and NATO
The EU’s defence strategy is underpinned by robust international partnerships, particularly with NATO and the United Nations. The EU-NATO strategic partnership remains essential for Euro-Atlantic security, with ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation in areas such as cyber security, defence innovation, and military mobility.
Additionally, the EU is fostering tailored partnerships with regional actors in Africa and the Middle East, promoting global peace and security through effective multilateralism and cooperation.
Do EU governments agree?
While the Council’s conclusions reflect a unified stance on enhancing EU defence capabilities, individual member states bring diverse perspectives and priorities to the table.
Countries like Germany and France are leading efforts in EU defence industrial investments and technological innovation, while Eastern member states such as Poland and the Baltic states emphasize the importance of rapid military mobility and robust defence support for Ukraine, i.e. within NATO.
The EU Commission’s plans, including the new European Defence Industrial Strategy and the Military Mobility Pledge 2024, are designed to harmonize these national priorities, fostering a cohesive and resilient EU defence framework.
Is There Genuine Unanimity in European Defence?
Amidst these strategic initiatives, critical questions arise about the depth and sincerity of the EU’s commitment to a unified defence strategy:
Is there a genuine unanimous will in Europe to create common military structures, a common army, a common industrial base, and, finally, a common foreign policy? Are these just slogans, or is there a clear intention with specific objectives, timelines, and financial resources? Will it be a carbon copy of NATO or the European arm of NATO?
These questions are pivotal in assessing the true progress and future trajectory of European Defence.
The Council’s conclusions indicate a strong collective will among member states to advance towards more integrated defence mechanisms:
- The establishment of frameworks like PESCO, the EU RDC, and the Military Mobility Pledge 2024 demonstrate tangible steps beyond mere rhetoric.
- However, achieving complete unanimity remains a complex endeavor due to varying national interests, strategic priorities, and levels of defence commitment across member states.
Specific Objectives and Financial Commitments
The Council’s document outlines clear objectives, such as the operationalisation of the EU RDC by 2025, the establishment of the EUCDCC, and significant investments in the EU’s Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB).
These initiatives are supported by concrete timelines and financial strategies, reflecting a departure from abstract slogans towards actionable plans. The European Defence Industrial Strategy and the Military Mobility Pledge 2024 provide detailed roadmaps for enhancing defence capabilities, underscoring the EU’s commitment to allocating necessary resources.
Relationship with NATO
Regarding the relationship with NATO, the EU explicitly maintains that its defence initiatives are complementary rather than duplicative. The strategic partnership with NATO is emphasized as essential for collective defence, ensuring that EU defence measures do not undermine but rather enhance the transatlantic security framework. The EU aims to develop its defence capabilities to achieve strategic autonomy while reinforcing the existing NATO structures.
Looking Ahead: A Resilient and Autonomous EU Defence
As the EU navigates an increasingly complex security environment, the Council’s strategic conclusions pave the way for a more resilient and autonomous defence framework. By prioritizing defence readiness, supporting Ukraine, enhancing industrial capabilities, and strengthening international partnerships, the EU aims to secure long-term peace and stability within its borders and beyond.
The collective efforts of member states, guided by the EU Commission’s strategic plans, underscore a commitment to safeguarding European values and interests in an uncertain and volatile world.
We note, however, that good intentions are not supported by equally ambitious funding.
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