EU countries seek advanced ground combat capabilities
EDA member states have been investing in autonomous capabilities. (Photo: French Army)
In order to plug capability gaps highlighted by the war in Ukraine, European governments aim to invest in cutting-edge weapons and data management systems, artificial intelligence and next-generation armoured vehicles.
The war in Ukraine has been shedding light on the importance of advanced capabilities for deployment in ground conflicts. To ensure they are prepared for future warfare and high-intensity conflicts, European countries are seeking ways to improve their land forces inventory.
The military spending of European Defence Agency (EDA) member states set a record in 2021, reaching €214 billion ($226 billion).
Procurement of defence equipment and related research also hit an all-time high, €52 billion, of which 82% (€43 billion) was allocated for procurement and 18% (€9 billion) for R&D. In the coming years, EDA countries are expected to raise their
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![Denmark shuns US platform as it settles on SAMP/T air defence system]()
Denmark shuns US platform as it settles on SAMP/T air defence system
The acquisition, which is part of the country’s broader defence package worth DKK58 billion (US$9.2 billion), goes against the grain with many other European countries opting for the US’s popular Patriot platform.
-
![DSEI 2025: Avon Protection provides first sight of new goggle and details on half mask]()
DSEI 2025: Avon Protection provides first sight of new goggle and details on half mask
Avon Protection has been growing and improving its integrated systems offerings. Last year the company released its Exoskin total protective suit system and earlier this year the MITR-M1 half mask.
-
![DSEI 2025: Elbit Systems set to field joint fires systems as it looks to large UK requirements]()
DSEI 2025: Elbit Systems set to field joint fires systems as it looks to large UK requirements
Elbit Systems UK was awarded the Dismounted Joint Fires Integrators (D-JFI) programme in January 2021, which will integrate with the UK’s army, marines and air force. The parent company has decades of heritage in the UK and is looking to compete for the Watchkeeper drone replacement.
