Defence
Protecting freedom
A robust European defence industry is essential to provide our armed forces with the equipment they need to fulfil their mission. Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has illustrated that this is more important than ever. In an increasingly instable world, we are committed to forging a Europe that is always prepared and capable of defending its citizens and values.
The defence industry develops, produces and services a wide range of military products such as weapons, aircraft, vehicles, vessels, and electronic systems. It features complex supply chains, including original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that design and produce the final products, and a network of suppliers providing essential sub-systems, components and materials that go into final products.
Given its importance for national security, the defence industry operates in a market where national governments play a decisive role as customers, sponsors and regulators.
Why do we need a European defence industry?
The primary objective of Europe’s armed forces is to deter potential adversaries from ever attacking us. To achieve this, they must be able to effectively and decisively overcome any aggressor. This means ensuring that our armed forces are provided with defence systems and equipment that are state-of-the-art and held in sufficient numbers to enable them to prevail in all scenarios they could credibly face, whether acting alone or alongside allies.
Defence
- €158.8 bn
Turnover
Defence industry turnover in 2023
- €55.4 bn
Exports
Defence exports in 2023
- 581,000
Employment
People employed in the European defence industry in 2023
Defending freedom
To protect our security and freedom, our armed forces must be equipped with state-of-the-art equipment that is held in sufficient numbers. The European defence industry has the expertise to develop, produce and maintain such equipment and thereby empowers our military personnel to fulfil their mission.
The capacity of Europe to defend itself is intricately linked to its defence industrial capabilities. By investing in and supporting a robust indigenous defence industry, Europe ensures it remains a place of peace, freedom and democracy
The costs of relying on non-European defence suppliers
ASD initiatives
Key focus areas for our daily work as the voice for the defence industry in Europe.
