EU DEFENSE CHALLANGE

UE projected flag

The European Union (EU) faces critical structural and geopolitical challenges in the field of defense, aggravated by the current international scenario marked by conflicts, hybrid threats and technological competition. Below are the main challenges and strategic responses:

1. Weaknesses in Integration and Coordination

Fragmentation of military systems: Member States use incompatible equipment and technologies, hindering interoperability and increasing costs.

Political divergences: Divergent national policies (such as military neutrality of some countries) limit the adoption of a common strategy.

2. External Dependence and Strategic Autonomy

Reliance on NATO: The EU depends on the alliance for military deterrence, but uncertainty about US commitment (especially with the rise of populism) demands greater autonomy.

Technological vulnerabilities: Dependence on external suppliers (e.g., US, China) in critical sectors such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

3. Insufficient Financing and Inefficiencies

Chronic underinvestment: Between 2014 and 2023, only 11 Member States met the target of investing 2% of GDP in defense.

Budgetary constraints: The European Investment Bank (EIB) excludes financing for weapons and ammunition, limiting military innovation projects.

4. Hybrid and Multidimensional Threats

Hybrid warfare: Combination of cyberattacks, disinformation and economic pressure (e.g. Russia).

Cross-sector crises: Lack of preparedness for scenarios that simultaneously involve energy security, migration and political instability.

5. Immediate Geopolitical Challenges

Russian expansionism: The invasion of Ukraine highlighted the need for integrated air defense and rapid response capabilities.

Competition with China: Trade and technological pressures, as well as risks of dependence on critical infrastructure.

EU Strategic Responses

Strategic Compass 2030: Plan to create a "rapid intervention force" of 5,000 troops and strengthen capabilities in air and cyber defense.

Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO): 60 multinational projects, such as the development of combat drones and secure communications systems.

European Defense Fund: Investment of 8 billion euros (2021-2027) in dual (civil-military) research and development.

Rearmament Plan: Proposal of 800 billion reais by 2030 to modernize equipment and infrastructure.

Conclusion

The EU needs to overcome internal fragmentation, increase defense investment, and accelerate technological integration to face threats such as Russia, instability in the Middle East, and global competition. Strategic autonomy depends on policy harmonization, strengthening the industrial base, and civil-military cooperation.