EU to fund testing of defense projects in Ukraine
Photo: EU approves funding for military technologies in Ukraine (Getty Images)
The European Parliament has adopted the Defense Readiness Omnibus, which provides for funding and testing advanced military technologies directly in Ukraine, according to the European Parliament’s press service.
Testing technologies and funding for innovation
The adopted document is aimed at directing European investment toward solutions that have already proven necessary during the war — drones, sensors, ammunition, and other advanced technologies.
According to Industry co-rapporteur Aura Salla, amid the real threat posed by Russia, every euro must have the maximum possible impact.
That is why the EU is simplifying procedures and supporting the testing of defense projects in Ukraine, turning know-how into real weapons without unnecessary bureaucracy.
Removing bureaucracy and speeding up permits
The main goal of the Defense Omnibus is to eliminate administrative barriers that have slowed the development of Europe’s defense industry for years.
The new rules will significantly reduce the time needed to obtain permits to expand defense production. EU governments that quickly implement expedited procedures will be able to attract more investment.
Simplified procurement and the threat from Russia
The package of decisions also makes defense procurement within the EU more efficient and allows military products to be moved more quickly between EU countries.
Members of the European Parliament stress that Russia will remain a long-term threat to Europe’s security even after the war in Ukraine ends. Therefore, the single defense market must be fully prepared for new geopolitical realities.
Creation of a European Security Council
As a reminder, the EU previously proposed creating a European Security Council with Ukraine’s participation.
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry welcomed the proposal, noting that protection against Russian aggression is the top priority for the security of the entire continent.
In addition, Ukraine and the EU plan to create a joint air defense system based on the Freyja project.
The initiative is intended to significantly strengthen the protection of Ukrainian airspace and reinforce the European Union’s eastern flank.
