Brussels: The European Union (EU) announced on Tuesday a new legislative package aimed at accelerating defence investment and production across EU member states, in response to growing global security challenges, and in line with the "White Paper on European Defence Readiness 2030".
According to Kuwait News Agency, in a press conference, EU Commissioner for Defence Andrius Kubilius emphasized the importance of readiness, stating, "The only way to ensure European peace is to make sure we are ready to defend ourselves credibly and quickly." He highlighted that the new package proposes ambitious measures to cut red tape and enhance the pace of European defence efforts.
The EU explained that the new measures, under the "Defence Readiness Omnibus," aim to fortify member states' capabilities and streamline investment procedures in defence infrastructure. This initiative is designed to improve preparedness for deterring high-intensity conflicts.
The package details proposals to expedite defence initiatives by reducing permitting timelines to 60 days, establishing single points of contact, easing the administrative burden under the European Defence Fund, facilitating joint procurement, and raising contract thresholds. It also aims to clarify the application of EU legislation and adapt chemical regulations to meet defence industry needs.
Additionally, the package proposes measures to enhance access to funding and clarify the definition of prohibited weapons under the sustainable finance framework. The legislative proposals will now be submitted to the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union for discussion under the ordinary legislative procedure.
This initiative is rooted in the "White Paper on European Defence Readiness 2030," which underscores the necessity of regulatory simplification and harmonisation as vital tools to boost Europe's defence preparedness.
The package follows targeted amendments proposed in April 2025 to EU funding programmes, aiming to support more rapid, flexible, and coordinated investment in Europe's defence technological and industrial base, according to the statement.
Preparations for the initiative involved extensive consultations with member states, defence industry stakeholders, small and medium-sized enterprises, and the outcomes of the "Strategic Dialogue with the European Defence Industry" chaired by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on May 12, as well as the "Implementation Dialogue" chaired by Commissioner Kubilius on May 19.
The initiative also addresses the European Council's call on March 6, 2025, urging the Commission to prioritise a defence-specific simplification package to support Europe's defence industry amidst rapidly evolving security threats.