EU to invest over €1 billion in 57 defence projects, including with Ukraine's participation
Following the results of the 2025 calls, the European Union will allocate €1.07 billion to implement 57 new projects under the European Defence Fund, with Ukrainian companies also taking part.
As reported by a correspondent of European Pravda in Brussels, the EU is investing €1.07 billion in 57 security and defence projects, some of which involve Ukraine.
"Following the evaluation of the 2025 calls for the European Defence Fund (EDF), the European Commission will invest €1.07 billion in 57 new EDF projects," the Commission stated.
These projects cover a wide range of critical defence sectors, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, drones and counter-drone systems.
The projects involve 634 companies from 26 EU member states and Norway. With support from the EU Defence Innovation Office in Kyiv, Ukrainian partners have also been able to join some of the projects.
"The EU is also deepening its cooperation with the Ukrainian defence industry, supported by the EU Defence Innovation Office in Kyiv. This partnership aims to better integrate Ukraine into the European industrial base. One key initiative, Project STRATUS, will develop an AI-powered cyber defence system for drone swarms. It includes a Ukrainian subcontractor, ensuring the project benefits from direct battlefield experience," European officials said.
The investments will support the goals outlined in the EU's Defence Readiness Roadmap to 2030 and provide funding for four flagship initiatives: the European Drone Defence Initiative, the Eastern Flank Watch, the European Air Shield and the European Space Shield.
To attract new talent, several projects focused on the mass production of affordable drone munitions will launch "sub-calls" for startups and small and medium-sized companies. These smaller companies may receive up to €60,000 each.
"Ukrainian entities can also apply," the European Commission added.
It is reported that €675 million will support 32 capability development initiatives, while €332 million will go to 25 research projects.
The relevant grant agreements are expected to be signed by the end of 2026.
Finland and Poland plan to lead efforts to protect NATO's eastern flank from Russian aggression.
Earlier this year, defence ministers of the Baltic states signed an agreement in Tallinn to create a joint military mobility space.
On 19 November, the EU presented the concept of a "military Schengen" to enable the rapid movement of troops across Europe.