The European Commission is set to unveil a new initiative aimed at accelerating the development and procurement of cutting-edge defence technologies. This move comes as Europe seeks to bolster its military capabilities in response to growing threats from Russia and uncertainties surrounding U.S. military presence on the continent.
According to a draft document obtained by Reuters, the Commission will present a defence industry transformation roadmap. The roadmap underscores the critical role of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and quantum technologies, in modern warfare. “Europe must learn from Ukraine. Development and adoption of disruptive innovation should no longer be a nice-to-have policy,” the Commission stated in the draft.
The roadmap highlights the challenges faced by European companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in scaling up innovative defence solutions. To address these challenges, the Commission plans to propose a pilot initiative in early 2026. This initiative will enable companies to test and refine new technologies, expediting the transition from development to market-ready defence products.
The draft roadmap also outlines several key actions to support the defence industry. These include facilitating mutual recognition of certifications for defence technologies among member states, improving access to EU research facilities for companies, and encouraging member governments to allocate at least 10% of their defence budgets to emerging and disruptive technologies.
In addition to these measures, the Commission, in collaboration with the European Investment Bank, plans to launch a fund of up to 1 billion euros ($1.16 billion) to provide growth capital for SMEs in the defence sector. This funding is intended to support the scaling and commercialisation of innovative defence technologies.
The proposed initiative reflects a broader strategic shift within the EU to enhance its defence capabilities through technological innovation. By fostering a more dynamic and resilient defence industry, the EU aims to ensure its security and strategic autonomy in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
As Europe continues to navigate the challenges posed by global security threats, the focus on technological advancement and industry transformation will be crucial. The Commission’s roadmap represents a significant step towards building a more robust and innovative defence sector, capable of meeting the demands of modern warfare.