EU Bolsters Defence Readiness

In a significant legislative move, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from four key committees have endorsed a series of proposals aimed at fortifying Europe’s defence capabilities. The measures, part of the Omnibus V package, were approved on Monday, setting the stage for up to €800 billion in defence investments under the ReArm Europe Plan/Readiness 2030.

The approved proposals aim to streamline the permit-granting processes for defence projects across the EU, with a new default deadline set at 50 working days, which can be extended under certain conditions. This initiative seeks to enhance the EU’s rapid response to security challenges by expediting the construction of new industry plants and the expansion of existing facilities. Additionally, the measures simplify the intra-EU transfers and procurement of defence-related products, introducing more exemptions to licensing schemes and favoring simplified arrangements to foster innovation.

The legislative files also address the simplification of security and defence procurement, advocating for a negotiated procedure for urgent needs, which allows direct talks with suppliers, often bypassing open tenders. This procedure aims to replenish depleted stocks swiftly and efficiently. Moreover, the proposals encourage the use of components from EU, EEA EFTA countries, Ukraine, and other security partners, limiting external components to 35% of the final product’s cost.

The next steps include the endorsement of these positions by the Parliament’s plenary session. If approved, negotiations will commence with the incoming Cypriot Presidency of the Council on the final shape of the legislation. This legislative package is part of the EU’s broader strategy to remove administrative hurdles and bolster the European defence industry, thereby enhancing cooperation and strengthening the European defence technological and industrial base.