Key facts
- EU countries are invited to pitch 20 billion euros ($22 billion) worth of defense projects.
- The European Commission emphasized that proposals should ideally prioritize Ukraine.
- The funding is part of the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument.
- The SAFE instrument includes 150 billion euros ($167.5 billion) in favorable loans available from May 2025.
- EU countries are encouraged to engage in joint defense procurement with Ukraine.
- Urgent needs for Ukraine include air and missile defense systems, drones, counter-drone systems, and ammunition.
The European Union has opened a call for defense project proposals worth 20 billion euros ($22 billion), with a strong emphasis on supporting Ukraine's defense needs. This initiative is part of the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) instrument, which offers favorable loans to member states. The European Commission encouraged joint defense procurement with Ukraine and spending on urgent needs like air defense systems, drones, and ammunition. This move follows increased momentum in Ukraine-EU defense cooperation, including joint production initiatives and the EU-Ukraine drone alliance. Companies like Finnish manufacturer Patria are exploring collaborations with Ukrainian firms, while former Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk urged European governments to increase support for Ukraine.