Defence industry

Drones have become ubiquitous in conflicts, from the wars in Ukraine and Gaza/Israel/Lebanon to the civil wars in Sudan, Syria and Myanmar. We explore the impact of drones on modern warfare and how the EU should respond to their growing prominence on the battlefield.

Ukraine urgently needs investment in local production capacities and repair and maintenance facilities. The EU and Ukraine have a shared strategic interest in supporting the reform and development of Ukraine’s rapidly expanding defence industry.

The EU faces a crucial challenge in 2024: supplying Ukraine and rebuilding its arsenals. While tight budgets impede immediate industry restructuring, the EU's pivotal move could be championing dual-use strategic enablers.

Against the backdrop of the biggest rearmament effort in Europe since the 1950s, this Brief examines whether the EU defence industry is as fragmented as is commonly believed. It argues that new EU initiatives should focus on strengthening long-term demand for critical strategic...

After many years of underinvestment in defence, EU Member States are rearming. This Brief reviews the record of European armaments collaboration and sets out under what conditions common defence acquisition and joint arms procurement make most sense (and when it does not).

This Brief outlines the major space threats and makes concrete suggestions on how space can support the EU's Strategic Compass.

Digital technologies can vastly improve the operational readiness and effectiveness of Europe’s armed forces. As this Brief shows, however, the EU needs to better understand the risks and opportunities involved in the digitalisation of defence and it needs to financially invest...