The 2026 EU budget, adopted by the European Parliament, stands at €192.8 billion in commitments and €190.1 billion in payments, emerging as one of the most pivotal financial documents in recent years for European security. As geopolitical tensions escalate, the war in Ukraine persists, and critical infrastructure faces threats, the EU institutions have infused next year’s budget with a markedly strategic character. The negotiations between the European Commission and MEPs resulted in an increase of over €370 million in the initial proposal, a move underscored in official EU announcements.
While economic competitiveness and scientific research remain the budget’s primary focus, the allocation for security and strategic resilience has been significantly expanded. The emphasis now lies on developing critical technologies and defence capabilities, bolstering the European arms industry, and reducing reliance on non-EU suppliers. Additional funding is also directed towards transport and energy infrastructure, essential for military mobility, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe. Furthermore, funding for civil preparedness, crisis management, and border protection has been increased, reflecting the growing importance of these areas in safeguarding EU interests amid hybrid threats. As MEPs highlight, the 2026 budget is designed to address periods of uncertainty and fortify European resilience broadly.
Developed amidst a growing conviction that European security demands more decisive and consistent action than previous political declarations, the new budget reflects the realities of the war on the EU’s eastern border, instability in the Black Sea region, and migratory pressures in the south. Increasing spending on defence projects and dual-use technologies is no longer optional but a crucial element in building European strategic autonomy. The budget also includes a significant reserve of flexibility that can be activated in response to new crises, demonstrating the EU’s preparedness to tackle unpredictable challenges, both military and hybrid.
For countries like Poland, the 2026 budget presents extensive opportunities in defence modernization, the expansion of military-critical infrastructure, and support for security technologies. Increased funding for research and innovation creates real development opportunities in the European defence technology sector, including Poland’s, particularly since EU programs often promote industrial cooperation and cross-border projects. From a Polish perspective, investments in transportation and energy infrastructure are particularly important, as they directly impact the ability to rapidly deploy troops and resources to NATO’s eastern flank. Funds for external border protection and strengthening crisis management systems are equally vital, addressing the region’s real security challenges.
While the 2026 EU budget represents a significant step towards enhancing security and strategic autonomy, its scale remains limited compared to Europe’s actual defence needs. Even with increased spending, the EU cannot replace national investments in armed forces modernization or the purchase of modern weaponry. Nevertheless, the new budget sends a clear political signal: EU institutions recognize the need to accelerate actions in security and crisis preparedness. For Poland, this means that in the coming years, we can expect further strengthening of defence cooperation, the European pillar of armed forces, and the modernization of critical infrastructure.