Brussels, Oct 23 (AP) European Union leaders have endorsed a strategic plan aimed at bolstering Europe’s defense capabilities by the end of the decade, amidst rising concerns regarding Russia’s probing of the EU’s defenses. The leaders articulated that “Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and its repercussions for European and global security in a changing environment constitute an existential challenge” during a summit in Brussels.

The plan, referred to as Readiness 2030, was developed by the European Commission, the EU’s executive branch. It calls for national governments to initiate concrete projects by the first half of 2026. A primary focus will be on establishing drone defenses to detect, track, and neutralize rogue drones, in response to recent airspace violations across Europe, particularly near borders with Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine.

The European Drone Defense Initiative will be integral to a broader strategy known as Eastern Flank Watch, aimed at enhancing defenses along Europe’s eastern borders—on land, in the Baltic and Black seas, and in the air—while also addressing hybrid threats. The leaders emphasized that the initial projects should prioritize anti-drone and air defense capabilities, leveraging EU funds to address immediate needs and threats.

The European Commission estimates that EU defense spending for the current year will reach approximately 392 billion euros (USD 457 billion), nearly double the amount from four years prior to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It anticipates that around 3.4 trillion euros (USD 4 trillion) will likely be allocated to defense over the next decade, with plans to propose an increase in the EU’s long-term budget for defense and space to 131 billion euros (USD 153 billion).

The overarching goal of the Readiness 2030 plan is to facilitate member countries in determining leadership roles for various projects, with an aim to launch them within the first six months of the upcoming year. By late 2027, at least 40 percent of military acquisitions are expected to be conducted jointly, promoting cost efficiency and the use of interoperable weapons and standards.

Projects, contracts, and funding for “critical capabilities”—such as drones or satellites—are required to be finalized by the end of 2028, with the entire process expected to be completed two years later. Additionally, the plan emphasizes the provision of security guarantees for Ukraine, highlighting the significance of close cooperation with Ukraine and its integration into the European defense industry.