EU launches first strategic dialogue with defence industry to boost industrial readiness
May 1, 2025 | Thursday | News
President von der Leyen emphasised the critical role of the European defence industry in ensuring the continent’s security and resilience
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has formally inaugurated the first-ever Strategic Dialogue with representatives of the European defence industry, signalling a major step toward fortifying Europe’s defence capabilities amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty.
In her opening remarks, President von der Leyen emphasised the critical role of the European defence industry in ensuring the continent’s security and resilience, especially in the wake of Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. She applauded the sector for its rapid response, marked by increased production and the launch of new factory lines, but cautioned that deeper structural challenges must be urgently addressed.
Key issues identified included the fragmentation of demand and supply chains, regulatory complexity, limited access to raw materials, innovation pressures, financing hurdles, and shortages in skilled labour, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
“To remain competitive and responsive, Europe’s defence industry must be able to act at speed and scale,” von der Leyen stated. “This requires a cohesive and modernised framework that enables collaboration, accelerates innovation, and strengthens our industrial base.”
The Commission reiterated its commitment to collaborate closely with industry stakeholders and announced that inputs from this dialogue would directly shape the upcoming Defence Omnibus Package, slated for presentation in June 2025. This legislative package aims to streamline certification processes, permits, and joint procurement mechanisms across EU member states.
Participants from across the sector held productive discussions on mobilising investments, reinforcing industrial cooperation, promoting R&D and tech advancements, securing supply chains, and upskilling the defence workforce.
Commissioner for Defence Industry Andrius Kubilius, who also participated in the dialogue, echoed the President’s call for unity and innovation, pledging continued engagement with the sector.
The Strategic Dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to maintain ongoing consultations to further reinforce Europe’s defence industrial base and ensure the continent’s strategic autonomy.
