EDA Report 2024: Strengthening Europe’s Defence Backbone in a New Strategic Era

With the EDA Annual Report 2024 just published, here is a short wrap-up of important points to take away:

As the European Defence Agency marks its 20th anniversary, the 2024 Annual Report showcases a transformative year for EU defence collaboration. Against the backdrop of escalating global tensions and ongoing war in Ukraine, EDA has solidified its role as a cornerstone of European security and innovation.

Key milestones include:

• €681 million in Research & Technology projects, spanning AI, autonomous systems, next-gen naval platforms, and cyber defence.
• Expansion of the CapTech framework with breakthroughs in aerial refueling, stealth materials, and hyperspectral imaging.
• Enhanced joint procurement, including over €1.6 billion in contracts for 155mm artillery ammunition and the launch of new aggregations for anti-tank rounds, CBRN equipment, and soldier gear.
• Forward-looking defence capability development with joint commitments to integrated air and missile defence, loitering munitions, and a European Combat Vessel by 2040.
• Deepened cooperation with Ukraine, the US, Norway, and Switzerland, and stronger ties with NATO, ESA, and OCCAR.
• A new emphasis on sustainable defence, including additive manufacturing and circular economy initiatives like Digital Product Passports for military equipment.

Under the Long-Term Review, EDA now fully supports capability development across five core pillars — from R&D to joint procurement and strategic policy advising.

In the words of Chief Executive Jiří Šedivý:  “We owe it to our citizens. We can no longer take peace for granted.”

🔗 Read the full report at www.eda.europa.eu

Your Expert for Security and Defense

Dr. Oliver Heinrich, Partner and Attorney-at-law
Phone: +49 221 / 270 956 – 200, e-mail: oliver.heinrich@bho-legal.com