Europe charts bold path to defense autonomy with €150b ($164b) plan
The European Commission, in its latest publication known as the white paper, outlined key areas that require strengthening in the context of arming Europe. Among these areas are air and missile defense systems, artillery, ammunition, and the East Shield initiative.
In the document, the European Commission detailed a rearmament plan previously outlined by President Ursula von der Leyen.
This plan includes 150 billion euros (164 billion dollars) in the form of loans for defense projects, as well as a relaxation of budgetary rules for member states regarding defense spending and the possibility of reallocating funds flexibly within the Union's budget.
The white paper emphasized that the presence of American troops in Europe has led to a certain degree of dependence on the USA. The document indicates that overreliance on American protection has weakened Europe's ability for self-defense and its autonomy in regional actions.
To overcome this dependence, it is necessary to develop defense capabilities through joint European projects, especially considering possible changes in the United States' approach.
Seven key areas
The European Commission identified seven key areas where the European Union has significant deficiencies. The first of these is air and missile defense, followed by artillery systems, and then ammunition and missiles.
The fourth area is drones and anti-drone systems. The fifth area is military mobility. The sixth involves the use of artificial intelligence and modern technologies in defense, and the seventh concerns strategic factors supporting defense capabilities and protecting critical infrastructure.
In the context of the last area, the document mentions the "East Shield" initiative, which aims to strengthen the protection of land borders.
