EU Fact Sheets – Defence industry – 12-05-2025

Source: European Parliament 2

The EU defence industry plays a vital role in ensuring the Union’s security and strategic autonomy. It also contributes to competitiveness and growth. However, the European defence sector has long suffered from structural weaknesses, preventing it from producing defence equipment at the necessary pace. In view of the increasing geopolitical tensions, the EU has put defence at the top of its agenda and aims to strengthen the defence industry to make it more responsive, innovative, competitive and resilient.