EU Approves First Joint Arms Purchases

For the first time, the European Union has approved the use of its budget to finance joint arms purchases among member states, primarily intended for Ukraine. This initiative, part of the European Defence Industry Reinforcement through Common Procurement Act (EDIRPA), includes five projects totaling €300 million, with each project receiving €60 million in EU support. The total value of these projects exceeds €11 billion and involves the procurement of air defense systems, ammunition, and armored vehicles. Key projects include the joint acquisition of Mistral and IRIS-T SLM air defense systems and 155mm ammunition. This move reflects a significant shift in EU defense policy, signaling a commitment to enhance military capabilities in response to external threats. The initiative is also aimed at improving the interoperability of member states' armed forces and strengthening the European defense industry.