Euronews article: What’s needed to strengthen Europe’s defence

A recent Euronews article highlighted concerns about the challenges facing the European defence sector, noting a number of trends in defence spending, and quoting, amongst others, ASD’s Defence and Security Director, Burkard Schmitt.

The article presented several critical statistics that highlight the challenges facing Europe's defence sector. One comparison, referenced from a political manifesto by Ursula von der Leyen released in July 2024, underscores the relative underinvestment in Europe's defence capabilities compared to major global powers. Over the period from 1999 to 2021, defence spending in the European Union grew by just 20%. In stark contrast, Russia increased its defence budget by 300%, while China ramped up its military spending by 600%. 

ASD’s Burkhard Schmitt is quoted in the article: "The budget increases that we currently see are not to the level that would be needed to ensure that Europe can defend itself." "There is still a lack of clarity, visibility and reliability with a view to the future."

MEP Nathalie Loiseau is also quoted,echoing these sentiments: "There is not enough funding, not enough coordinated planning, and no real single market for defence industries. We cannot continue with the current state of play."

The article also highlights the heavy reliance of EU member states on non-European suppliers for their defence acquisitions. In response to this, the EU has set a modest goal to increase the proportion of defence spending sourced within Europe. By 2030, the EU aims for 35% of its defence expenditures to be from European suppliers, up from 22% in the immediate aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.