The European Parliament has voted in favor of a new mechanism to strengthen the defense industry and help member states modernize their weapons. This was reported by the press service of the European Parliament.


Members of the European Parliament supported the Law on Strengthening the European Defense Industry through Common Procurement (EDIRPA).


This will establish a short-term instrument to strengthen the European defense industry through joint procurement until December 31, 2025. This will help EU member states meet their urgent and critical defense needs, which have been exacerbated by the supply of defense products to Ukraine.


It is noted that the budget of the instrument will be 300 million euros. At least three EU member states must participate in joint procurement. They should also be open to members of the European Free Trade Association.


At the same time, countries will be able to agree to buy military goods together with Ukraine and Moldova.


The EU's financial contribution to each action will be limited to 15% of the estimated value of the joint contract. However, this limit can be raised to 20% if Ukraine or Moldova receive additional volumes of defense products.


"Today's vote marks a historic moment for EU defense, creating the first EU instrument for joint procurement by member states. This will help them replenish their stockpiles, increase interoperability between our armed forces, strengthen our industry and contribute to our unwavering support for Ukraine and Moldova.

"Today's vote marks a historic moment for EU defense, creating the first EU instrument for joint procurement by member states. It will help them replenish their stockpiles, increase interoperability between our armed forces, strengthen our industry and contribute to our unwavering support for Ukraine," said Michael Haller, co-speaker of the Foreign Affairs Committee.