Europe's Military Move: EU's New Loan Program to Boost Defense Autonomy

The European Union is introducing a loan program encouraging EU countries to procure military equipment from European producers, aiming to bolster its defence industry. This move follows the reliance on US suppliers and comes amidst growing pressures for Europe to handle its own security, including Ukraine's.

The European Union is launching a new loan program designed to encourage member states to purchase military equipment manufactured within Europe, a senior EU official announced on Tuesday. The initiative comes as part of a broader effort for the continent to take charge of its security needs and reduce dependence on US suppliers.

During last week's summit, EU leaders discussed a European Commission proposal involving a 150 billion euro (USD 163 billion) loan plan aimed at acquiring air defence systems, drones, and other strategic assets, including cybersecurity enhancements. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that these loans are intended to strengthen the European defence industry.

The proposal underlines the necessity for multiannual contracts and joint procurement among countries, as emphasized by von der Leyen. In recent years, about two-thirds of European NATO members' defence orders have been made with US companies, compelling them to re-evaluate their strategy due to US pressure and the ongoing situation in Ukraine. The loan plan is expected to be endorsed at a summit next week, as part of measures potentially unlocking up to 800 billion euros (USD 874 billion) for security investments.

(With inputs from agencies.)