As the ancient Latin proverb aptly states, “si vis pacem, para bellum” — if you want peace, prepare for war. In today’s increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape, the European Union must prioritize the fortification of its own defence mechanisms. This imperative hinges on actionable strategies and a resolute political commitment that has, for far too long, been lacking among member states. The appointment of the first-ever European Commissioner for Defence and Space heralds a potential shift in this narrative, offering a glimmer of hope to energize the EU out of its previous stagnation.

Recently, our political family, the EPP Group, engaged in extensive discussions to outline a more robust framework for European defence. This culminated in the adoption of a strategic document titled “A Europe that Protects: Building a True European Defence Union.” The message is clear: we must act decisively, both now and in the foreseeable future.

It’s a Matter of Credibility

To grasp the urgency of our situation, consider this: over the last decade, Moscow and Beijing have escalated their defence budgets by nearly 300% and 600%, respectively. In stark contrast, EU member states have only increased their military expenditures by 20%. Alarmingly, not all European NATO allies have yet met the 2% of GDP spending target. We must urgently enhance our defence capabilities — it is a matter of credibility. Experts caution that Russia could launch a full-scale assault on EU and NATO territories within the next five years. Therefore, Europe must take the reins of its security, demonstrating both the capability and the resolve to defend itself and its interests. Our strategic paper outlines five actionable steps to achieve this goal.

It is far from ideal that EU member states currently procure 78% of their military equipment from non-EU sources. The ongoing war in Ukraine has starkly illuminated how fragmented capabilities and a lack of production and repair capacities result in long, vulnerable supply chains for essential military resources such as ammunition, spare parts, and maintenance.

1. Establishing a True European Single Market for Defence

First and foremost, we need to create a genuine European Single Market for Defence. The existing inefficiencies within the European defence market lead to unnecessary duplications, subpar effectiveness in defence spending, and ultimately a wastage of European taxpayers’ money. We must work towards a fully-fledged Single Market for Defence that involves substantial investments in our industrial capacity, encourages the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), eliminates cross-border barriers, and promotes pan-European value and supply chains. It is imperative to optimize production through standardization, mutual recognition of certifications, and prioritization of resources. Additionally, we should integrate Ukraine into our defence market and encourage joint procurement initiatives among member states.

2. Investing in the Future of Defence Technologies

Second, we must adopt an ambitious outlook and invest significantly in the future of European defence technologies. This includes a robust increase in funding for emerging and disruptive technologies such as cyber defence, outer space capabilities, innovative materials and manufacturing processes, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, biotechnology, and nanotechnology. Collaborative efforts with our transatlantic partners are essential to tackle large-scale European projects, including the development of a common, interoperable missile defence system, a European nuclear shield, and the establishment of a DARPA-style European Defence Advanced Research Programme Agency.

3. Enhancing Defence Cooperation and Integrated Capabilities

Third, we need to bolster defence cooperation and develop integrated European capabilities. The EPP Group envisions a Defence Union characterized by integrated land, sea, air, space, and cyber capabilities that align with NATO objectives, supported by a Rapid Deployment Capacity (RDC) as a permanent and readily available force. We must follow through on military mobility initiatives with concrete measures, particularly by creating a roadmap to achieve a “military Schengen” that ensures seamless military movement within EU borders.

We cannot afford to remain passive while global powers continue to bolster their military capabilities. The future of European security is contingent not only on strategic policies but also on unwavering political will. We should establish a fully staffed and equipped Joint Headquarters that integrates civilian and military assets, thereby maximizing the EU’s comprehensive approach to crisis management, from strategic planning and operational concepts to the execution of missions and operations.

4. Investing in Infrastructure and Industrial Capacity

Fourth, a significant increase in investment is essential, alongside smart regulatory frameworks, industrial capacity building, and enhanced infrastructure. Our ambitious defence goals must be met with adequate funding within the EU’s forthcoming multiannual budget. We urgently need to focus on increasing the volume, quality, and joint nature of our investments.

At the same time, we must call for streamlined regulations and reduced administrative burdens. The upcoming White Paper on the Future of European Defence should deliver concrete proposals that align with the recommendations of the Draghi report, which emphasizes the necessity for an additional €500 billion investment in the European defence sector over the next decade. We must explore innovative financing solutions, including a review of the European Investment Bank’s (EIB) mandate and the introduction of additional VAT exemptions. EIB loans should act as a catalyst for private investment within the European defence industry.

5. Cultivating a Strong Global Defence Presence

Finally, Europe must cultivate a formidable presence on the global stage regarding defence and security matters. For the EPP, the strong transatlantic relationship and collaboration with the United States within NATO remain fundamental to our security framework. However, this does not absolve us of the responsibility to build our own complementary and interoperable defence capabilities. True partnership entails shared responsibilities, collaborative efforts, and equitable burden-sharing. We cannot remain passive while the global landscape continues to evolve with escalating military capabilities. The trajectory of European security relies not only on policy frameworks but also on the collective political will of our leaders. Now is the time for Europe to assume full responsibility for its own defence. The world is indeed watching.

Andrzej Halicki is Vice Chair of the EPP Group in charge of foreign affairs, and Andrius Kubilius is European Commissioner-designate for Defence and Space.