EU Launches Collaborative Projects on Air Defence, Electronic Warfare, Loitering Munitions, and Combat Ships

The European Union has launched four collaborative defence projects focused on air defence, electronic warfare, loitering munitions, and next-generation combat ships, aiming to address critical military capability gaps among member states.

The European Defence Agency (EDA) reported that EU Member States' defense expenditure will reach €326 billion, or 1.9% of EU GDP, in 2024—an increase of over 30% since 2021. Despite higher spending, the 2024 Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD) highlights that national efforts alone cannot adequately prepare for high-intensity warfare, emphasizing the need for greater EU cooperation to align with NATO, address fragmentation, and bolster security.

The report urges investments in land, air, and maritime assets, replenishing stockpiles, modernizing defense systems, and enhancing interoperability. Strategic enablers like cyber defense, command-and-control systems, and satellite communications are also priorities. To strengthen the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB), Member States must reduce external reliance, build secure EU supply chains, and increase collaboration.

Four collaborative opportunities identified by CARD were reinforced with signed letters of intent from Member States, marking progress in joint defense projects:

1. Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD): At least 18 Member States aim to address immediate gaps with counter-UAS and GBAD systems, develop counter-drone and high-velocity technologies, and build a IAMD architecture long-term.
2. Electronic Warfare: At least 14 Member States will jointly procure equipment, share data, and develop systems for jamming and counter-jamming, alongside common doctrines, training, and facilities.
3. Loitering Munitions: At least 17 Member States plan joint procurement, operational concept development, and training for these versatile, precision-strike systems.
4. European Combat Vessel (ECV): Seven Member States will collaborate on next-generation modular vessels, harmonizing requirements and preparing for joint procurement by 2040.