EU approves five joint defence projects; Greece signs on to four, excluding Eastern-flank programme

In Brussels, the European Union gave the green light to its inaugural five collaborative defence projects, targeting critical gaps in drones and counter-drone systems, maritime and seabed security, space capabilities, air and missile defence, and security along the Union’s eastern flank. Greece has committed to the first four projects but will not join the eastern-flank programme, while Cyprus will engage in three initiatives, leaving out the space project.

The Irish Presidency praised the consensus reached by the 27 permanent representatives of member states. The decision follows assessments by the European Defence Agency, the European External Action Service and the European Commission. Formal endorsement by the Council of Foreign Affairs (defence composition) is slated for a forthcoming session. A second call for project proposals is planned before the end of April.