Euractiv: ASD urges EU to prioritise European defence capabilities and UK partnership
ASD calls for prioritising European defence industry and supports an EU-UK defence pact, as highlighted in a recent Euractiv article on the SAFE joint procurement scheme.
In a recent article for Euractiv, journalist Aurélie Pugnet highlights the position taken by Europe’s defence industry – through the voice of ASD and its members – on the proposed €150 billion SAFE joint defence procurement scheme.
She explains how ASD is clear that Europe’s defence industry is ready to deliver. “The industry is well positioned to address member states’ needs, as it continues to ramp up its production capacity,” ASD’s recent position paper states. With production scaling up and foreign stockpiles dwindling, the article explains how ASD is calling for a clear European preference in how SAFE is implemented – particularly for strategic domains such as missiles, critical infrastructure protection, and cyber technologies.
The article also notes that ASD emphasises the importance of strategic partnerships, notably with the United Kingdom. Given the number of EU manufacturers with UK-based branches or supply chains – such as MBDA and Leonardo – and the UK’s ongoing discussions to sign a defence pact with the EU, ASD supports granting the UK trusted third-country access to the scheme. Strengthening EU–UK defence ties is a key priority for industry and an area where ASD has been increasingly visible.
Member states are expected to finalise negotiations ahead of a scheduled adoption of the SAFE scheme on 13 May. The article notes that industry’s message is clear: focus investments in Europe’s growing industrial base, while building practical cooperation with close partners.
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