Defense investment and technology advancement, like what Ukraine has been learning, should be prioritized during this week’s EU Summit in Brussels as speed is crucial.
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James Appathurai, NATO’s deputy assistant secretary general for innovation, hybrid, and cyber, noted that the conflict in Ukraine bears similarities to both World War I and World War III. He emphasizes the importance of making tech commercially available and dual-use for modern warfare.
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen underscored the need for EU countries to depend on European defense supply chains, especially in emergencies. The Commission’s white paper on defense will strategically invest €800 billion over four years for greater autonomy and effective defense technology.
Timely investment in defense is critical, as Europe learns from Ukraine’s three-year war. Buntar Aerospace’s co-founder, Bohdan Sas, highlighted how companies must test their military technology in practical settings. He stressed that financial investment can buy crucial time.
Sas emphasized that European defense companies, particularly those without battlefield experience, are at a disadvantage. He noted that some Western and European tech initially underperformed but improved with further research and upgrading.
NATO’s Appathurai, agreeing on the speed essential for defense tech, described the two to six-week innovation cycle. He pointed out the slow procurement process, such as with F-35s or Euro Fighters, which can result in outdated technology by delivery.
NATO aims to implement a rapid adoption plan to help allies adapt quickly, recognizing the need to prioritize both platforms and effects.
