On Sunday, 13 October 2024, Josep Borrell, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, urged European Union member states to invest more significantly in the development of defence technologies. Borrell’s comments, outlined in a blog post on the European External Action Service (EEAS) website highlighted the critical need for greater financial commitment and collaboration within the EU to bolster its defence capabilities.
According to Borrell, EU member states collectively spend €14.4 billion annually on military research and development, a figure dwarfed by the €130 billion invested by the United States in the same sector. More concerning, however, is the fragmented nature of these investments. “Each member state sets its own priorities and conducts separate activities,” Borrell noted, describing the disjointed approach as inefficient and detrimental to Europe’s overall defence preparedness.
Lack of Cooperation and Fragmentation
Borrell highlighted that only 18% of defence equipment procurement within the EU occurs through cooperative ventures. The vast majority of purchases are made at a national level, further contributing to the lack of synergy in European defence efforts. This decentralised approach, he argued, leaves the European defence industry “too small, too fragmented, and lacking in innovation.” The lack of unified investment, particularly in cutting-edge technology, is a significant concern as the geopolitical landscape becomes increasingly volatile.
Borrell stressed that EU defence companies must gain greater access to European innovation funds and collaborate more closely with research institutions and universities. By fostering a closer relationship between industry and academia, the EU could drive the development of new defence technologies and enhance its strategic autonomy. Furthermore, collaboration between defence companies across member states must extend beyond research and development into joint production, a step Borrell sees as crucial to creating a more cohesive and robust European defence industry.
Enhancing Public-Private Collaboration
Another key aspect of Borrell’s call was the need for enhanced interaction between the defence sector and private industry. He underscored the potential benefits of tapping into the innovation and technological advancements in the private sector, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, drones, and space capabilities, which are becoming increasingly vital to modern military operations.
While the EU’s defence sector holds significant potential, Borrell emphasised that unlocking this potential requires a coordinated and bold approach. “Europe stands at a critical juncture,” he stated, highlighting that while initiatives such as the European Defence Fund and the EU Defence Innovation Hub have made progress, more must be done to consolidate these gains.
The Strategic Importance of Innovation
In a rapidly evolving global landscape, technological advancement has become a defining feature of modern defence strategies. Borrell pointed out that Europe must stay at the forefront of innovations in key areas such as artificial intelligence and space capabilities. Failing to invest in these areas would put the EU at a strategic disadvantage, particularly as other global powers continue to make substantial advancements in defence technology.
“While we have made progress with initiatives like the European Defence Fund and the EU Defence Innovation Hub, we need to think bigger and act more boldly,” Borrell urged. He called for significant investments in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, drones, and space-based capabilities, which he identified as crucial to ensuring the EU remains a global defence player.
A Call to Action
Borrell’s message was clear: in a world filled with conflict and instability, Europe must rethink its approach to defence. His remarks come at a time when the EU is facing increased security challenges on multiple fronts, including the war in Ukraine, the evolving security dynamics in the Middle East, and growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. As the geopolitical environment becomes more unpredictable, the need for a unified and technologically advanced European defence capability becomes increasingly urgent.
Borrell’s call for more substantial investment and greater collaboration within the EU’s defence sector represents a strategic push towards strengthening Europe’s position on the global stage. By pooling resources, coordinating efforts, and fostering innovation, the EU could not only enhance its security but also build a more resilient and independent defence industry.
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