European Commission's Bold Move

In a significant step to bolster Europe's defense capabilities, the European Commission has announced a €910 million investment under the 2024 European Defence Fund (EDF). This initiative aims to modernize the defense sector and address critical gaps in capabilities.

Innovative Projects and Ukrainian Involvement

Among the funded projects are cutting-edge technologies like AI-driven drones and stealth technologies. Notably, this marks the first participation of Ukrainian defense industries in EDF collaborations, showcasing a united front in defense innovation.

Supporting SMEs and Future Defense

With a hefty budget of €7.3 billion through 2027, the EDF stands as the EU's cornerstone for defense research and development. This year, 299 proposals from 25 member states and Norway were considered, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) securing over 27% of the funds.

Commissioner Andrius Kubilius emphasized, "These proposals are pivotal in developing essential capabilities, including air and missile defense systems and unmanned aerial vehicles. They empower European armed forces to counter emerging threats and safeguard citizens, reinforcing collective defense and aiding partners like Ukraine against aggression."