EU approves five joint defence projects for drones, naval and missile defence

The European Council on Monday approved the first five European Defence Projects of Common Interest (EDPCI), aimed at strengthening the European Union’s defence readiness and industrial capacity.

The projects include developing capabilities in drones and counter-drone systems, naval and seabed protection, space, air and missile defence, and strengthening defence on the EU’s eastern flank.

The EDPCIs are part of the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP), adopted by the EU in 2025. The initiative aims to enable member states to jointly develop military capabilities considered important for European security and defence.

The projects are focused particularly on large or complex initiatives that would be harder to carry out by individual states.

With their approval, the five projects become eligible for EU funding through EDIP. The programme will support the initial phases of implementation and could serve as a basis for additional funding through the European Competitiveness Fund.

“Today’s decision shows that Europe can be ambitious and deliver on its promises,” said European Commissioner for Defence Andrius Kubilius. He stressed that member states are pooling expertise and investment to develop joint defence capabilities.