EU defense chief warns: Europe must ramp up arms production
Andrius Kubilius, the new European Union Commissioner for Defense, is calling for an increase in armaments in Europe. He believes that the community is not adequately prepared for a potential attack.
In an interview with "Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland," Kubilius critically evaluated Europe's readiness for a military conflict:
- Unfortunately, this will not change in a few days just because we now have a defense commissioner. It will take years before we have the capabilities in Europe required by NATO plans, - emphasized Kubilius.
Russian threat
Kubilius referred to analyses from German intelligence services and other countries, as well as NATO representatives, which predict that by 2030, Russia could achieve the capability to attack EU countries. Despite sanctions, Russia is expected to expand its defense industry to "unimaginable proportions."
- Experts say that Russia is currently producing more tanks than it deploys on the front line, - warned the EU commissioner.
Kubilius pointed out the "countless tanks" in Russian warehouses, questioning Putin's intentions. - We can only speculate, - he added, emphasizing the need to prepare for a "crisis situation warned of by intelligence services."
Artillery is key
The commissioner noted that, like Ukraine, Europe must increase the production of conventional weapons, such as artillery and infantry fighting vehicles. - The war in that country shows that artillery is crucial, but long-range and precision weapons are also extremely important, - noted Kubilius.
Drones, according to the commissioner, can change the course of the war. - So when our military says we must urgently increase the production of modern drones and electronic warfare equipment, we should do so, - he emphasized in an interview with RND.
Cooperation at the NATO level
NATO is striving to fill gaps in its capabilities, supporting cooperation among Poland, Germany, France, and Italy in developing long-range weapons. The initiative aims to counter nuclear threats from Russia and balance the strategic position it gained after breaking the INF Treaty. These efforts prioritize the modernization of allied capabilities.
NATO's strategy also includes enhancing logistic capabilities for the rapid deployment of units and developing advanced communication technologies. An important aspect is replenishing ammunition stocks and further integrating the defense industries of member states to better respond to threats from Russia and other potential adversaries.
