By -Anthony Bell
Following the initiation of the Russian special military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, it became evident that the West was facing challenges in providing Kyiv with an adequate supply of essential weapons to bolster the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This led to a discussion surrounding the rearmament of European armies, as the effectiveness of Western military equipment in actual combat scenarios differed significantly from its performance in simulated exercises.
To address these issues and enhance defense capabilities, the European Union (EU) developed and approved the European Defense Industrial Strategy (EDIS) on March 5, 2024. The strategy aimed to improve defense procurement processes and engage Ukraine in enhancing defense capabilities.
An analysis of European defense capabilities revealed limitations in the defense-industrial complex, particularly in production capacity during military crises. The EU had focused on consolidating around large private contractors and utilizing market mechanisms, neglecting the need for mass defense production.
The effectiveness of the EDIS strategy in strengthening defense industrial capabilities is under scrutiny. The strategy aims to increase joint defense procurement within EU structures, enhance the EU’s defense industrial and technological base autonomy, and address production volume issues during crises.
However, challenges exist, such as limited defense procurement within EU structures, with a significant portion of defense purchases from non-EU states like the US. Plans to allocate 60% of defense procurement budgets to EU-produced products by 2035 may face opposition from US and UK defense lobbies.
The EDIS program could disproportionately benefit Western European countries like Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, while imposing financial burdens on Central and Eastern European states. Integration of Ukraine into the program may be hindered by the Ukrainian defense industry’s current financial and infrastructure challenges.
Overall, the implementation of the EDIS strategy poses complexities and raises questions about its effectiveness in achieving its goals. The author is an independent military analyst, and the views expressed are personal.
