Defence sovereignty: Europe races to build the low-cost weapons of future
Summary
European countries and companies are speeding up the development of low-cost drones and weapons to increase their defense independence from the United States. This push comes amid the war in Ukraine and pressure from President Trump for NATO members to spend more on defense. Several startups in Europe are growing quickly by producing drones and interceptor missiles for military use.Key Facts
- British startup Skycutter builds interceptor drones used by Ukraine, with parts produced in Ukrainian factories.
- Drones used in the Ukraine war have changed how combat is fought, forcing soldiers to avoid air attacks and use protected routes.
- Europe plans to spend €800 billion on defense over four years to reduce reliance on U.S. weapons and increase defense sovereignty.
- The UK also aims to increase defense spending, with political leaders facing pressure to show progress after recent elections.
- European defense strategy includes buying more drones of various types for air, land, sea, and underwater use.
- The UK military wants equipment divided into 20% “survivable” (with people onboard), 40% “attritable” (can be lost without big issues), and 40% “consumable” (single use).
- European countries want to produce weapons and parts within their borders to avoid reliance on countries they might see as rivals, like China.
- Several European defense startups, like Tekever (Portugal) and Helsing (Germany), have become very valuable by focusing on drone technology.
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