EU Unveils Initiative to Boost Defence Tech Amid Rising Threats

The European Commission plans to propose a new initiative aimed at accelerating the development and procurement of innovative defence technologies. This move comes in response to increasing threats from Russia and lessons learned from the Ukraine war. The initiative aims to support European defence firms, particularly small and medium enterprises.

The European Commission is set to propose a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fast-tracking the development and acquisition of innovative defence technologies, according to a draft seen by Reuters. This comes as Europe seeks to strengthen its military readiness amid rising threats from Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine and uncertainties about future U.S. involvement.

Lessons from the Ukraine conflict have highlighted the crucial role of new defence technologies. However, European companies, notably smaller firms, still encounter significant hurdles in scaling and marketing such innovative solutions. The EU's executive body is expected to release a roadmap on Wednesday to expedite advancements in technologies that could enhance military capabilities across Europe.

The draft roadmap outlines how modern warfare is being transformed through the integration of technologies like artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. By 2026, the Commission plans to launch a pilot initiative to enable companies to refine and test new technologies, aiming for swifter commercialization. Additionally, it advocates for mutual recognition of defence technology certifications among EU countries and encourages budget allocation to emerging tech.

(With inputs from agencies.)