Brief
Twelve EU nations push back on France's defence preference rules
The group of twelve countries argues for continued access for non‑EU military partners in the EU's future defence budget.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Germany, Austria, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Italy, Latvia, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Sweden and Slovenia issued a joint non‑paper on 28 September, challenging French EU Affairs Minister Benjamin Haddad's proposal that future EU defence spending be limited to European‑made equipment.
France wants the European Competitiveness Fund – part of the EU's 2028‑2034 budget that totals about €2 trillion and includes roughly €130 billion for defence and space – to apply "European preference" rules, requiring at least two‑thirds European components in funded projects. The twelve countries say such rules would hinder cooperation with non‑EU allies, which they view as essential for readiness, equipment compatibility and supply‑chain resilience.
While the United States has promoted a broader "made in NATO" or "made with Europe" approach, a diplomat quoted in the report criticised France's stance and urged stronger ties with Canada and Britain. Another diplomat defended the French position, saying EU funds should primarily support European industry.
Key facts
- Twelve EU states issued a joint non‑paper opposing French defence preference rules (dailytimes.com.pk)
- France proposes that at least two‑thirds of components in funded defence projects be European (dailytimes.com.pk)
- The European Competitiveness Fund is part of a €2 trillion EU budget for 2028‑2034, including about €130 billion for defence and space (dailytimes.com.pk)
Sources
- [1] dailytimes.com.pk — originally reported as “Twelve EU countries oppose France’s defence push”
