The past year has seen significant advances in the EU defence and space to strengthen its security landscape and ensure long-term resilience
From new defence investment tools to landmark achievements in space, the EU has taken necessary steps to protect citizens, protect industrial capacity, and build strategic autonomy in an increasingly unpredictable world.
Boosting defence investment and preparedness
To accelerate defence spending and make it more efficient, the EU introduced the OMNIBUS package. This package was a significant reform that modernised how Member States finance and procure military capabilities.
A key part of this effort is the ReARM Europe Plan, designed to mobilise up to 800 billion euros for defence. A substantial share of this comes through the SAFE LOANS initiative, which includes 150 billion euros dedicated to facilitating joint purchases of essential equipment across the EU.
A significant development during the year was the release of the Readiness 2030 White Paper for European Defence. This strategic document outlines practical measures to close critical capability gaps, enhance industrial capacity, and ensure that Member States can equip their forces with modern systems. It also sets the foundation for steady, long-term growth within Europe’s defence industry, providing clarity on future needs and investment priorities.
The EU further strengthened its industrial readiness by launching the European Defence Industry Programme, valued at 1.5 billion euros. This programme supports innovation, safeguards supply chains, and assists Ukraine’s defence industry as it responds to urgent needs arising from the ongoing conflict. Through this combined approach, the EU aims to build a more resilient and self-sufficient defence ecosystem.
Military mobility across Europe
Another milestone came with the implementation of the Military Mobility Package, often described as a military version of the Schengen system. This initiative simplifies and accelerates the movement of troops and equipment across borders, enabling European forces to respond rapidly to crises. By reducing administrative barriers and improving transport infrastructure, the EU is increasing its capacity to act swiftly when security challenges arise.
Significant achievements in space policy
To work alongside defence efforts, the EU made significant progress in space. One of the year’s main developments was the advancement of the IRIS² Secure Connectivity Programme, with preparations moving forward following the signing of the concession contract. This next-generation satellite constellation aims to provide secure, resilient communications for governments, businesses, and citizens.
The Copernicus Earth observation programme also grew with the launch of five new satellites. These additions expand Europe’s ability to monitor air quality, rising sea levels, and other environmental indicators, reinforcing Copernicus’s status as a world-leading system.
A significant achievement for satellite navigation came on 24 July 2025, when Galileo’s OSNMA service became fully operational. This new authentication capability enables users to verify the integrity of Galileo navigation messages, offering greater protection against spoofing and signal interference.
Space cooperation and future policy
Space cooperation between the EU and Ukraine was strengthened through a new agreement granting Ukraine participation in three core EU Space Programme components: Copernicus, Space Weather Events, and Near-Earth Objects. This collaboration enhances environmental monitoring and hazard tracking while supporting Ukraine’s technological resilience.
The EU also advanced its regulatory ambitions through the proposed EU Space Act, which looks to harmonise rules for safe and sustainable operations in orbit. Complementing this, the Vision for the European Space Economy sets out how Europe can reinforce its competitiveness, foster innovation, and secure a leading role in the global space sector.
Together, these developments highlight a transformative year for EU defence and space policies.
