European Parliament adopts proposals for common defence market

The European Parliament has voted through two proposals aimed at building a common European defence market. 

Initially pitched back in January by the EU Committee on Security and Defence, the proposals outline critical ways to integrate the EU’s fragmented defence industry and close longstanding capability gaps. 

The two proposals were adopted by a majority of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in a plenary session on 11 March.

What does this mean?

While the vote does not signify a formal legislative process, by adopting the proposals MEPs are sending a signal that there is broad support for a more integrated defence sector. 

“Only by overcoming narrow national interests and fully unleashing the potential of the single market can we give our industry the scale to innovate, create quality jobs, equip our armed forces, and deliver value for money,” rapporteur Tobias Cremer said. 

The proposals

To address these issues, the first proposal sets out a vision for “credible deterrence,” with recommendations on how to build up the European defence technological and industrial base (EDTIB).  

The committee argued that the EU must adopt a “buy European” approach to boost the continent’s defence industry. They warn that complex procurement rules and uneven national subsidies are putting smaller defence companies at a disadvantage. Simplified regulations and easier cross border transfers would make defence spending more efficient and reduce dependence on non-EU suppliers the first proposal stipulated. 

It also states that Ukraine should be treated as an integral part of the EU defence market, reflecting its growing role in European security. 

The second proposal focuses on capability gaps in areas such as air and missile defence, drones, and cyber security. It argues that these gaps threaten Europe’s ability to deter and respond to threats and sustain large-scale military operations. 

Additionally, it called for deeper cooperation, coordinated planning and targeted investment to strengthen the bloc’s defence industrial base. 

The second proposal also urged member states to advance the European Readiness Flagship projects in the Defence Readiness Roadmap 2030, including the Drone Defence Initiative, Eastern Flank Watch, Air Defence Shield and Defence Space Shield. 

Of the nearly 700 MEPs who voted on the two proposals, 393 and 448 voted for the first and second proposals respectively. The vote illustrates that EU members believe aligning national efforts with EU and NATO priorities is a key step toward a European defence union.