The conference brought together representatives from EU institutions and agencies, national governments, NATO, industry, academia, and media to discuss pressing security issues facing Europe and the key role of the European industry in addressing them.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underlined in her contribution the value of defence capabilities provided by a strong European defence technological and industrial base in a world that has shifted towards open confrontation: “The world is as dangerous as it has been for generations. And Europe is in the middle of it. This is why it is time for a European awakening on defence and security. Our freedom and our prosperity depend on our security. And we have to bring our actions in line with the changing security environment.”
Estonian Prime Minister said in her keynote address focusing on Europe’s reaction to Russia’s war in Ukraine: “Europe needs to establish a new permanent state of defence readiness”.
Other speakers such as the Belgian Defence Minister Ludivine Dedoner, EU Commissioner Thierry Breton, and the Chairwoman of the European Parliament’s Subcommittee for Security and Defence, Nathalie Loiseau, stressed similar aspects in their interventions.
CEOs and senior representatives from industry such as Saab, KNDS, Fincantieri, Airbus, Leonardo, Navantia, MBDA and ADS reinforced the industry’s commitment to scaling up production and pointed out to what a large extent industry has already done so. However, they stressed the critical importance of long-term predictability and increased order volumes to sustain investments and to ensure the long-term economic viability of the European defence industry.
Reflecting on the summit, ASD Secretary General Jan Pie said:
“Today’s discussions have clearly shown two things: First, Europe knows what it needs to do – and is ready – to bolster its defence capabilities amid a myriad of security threats. Secondly, industry will have to play a pivotal role in this common endeavour – because without industry, there will be no security.
I am very pleased about the outcome of the conference and would like to thank all participants for the huge interest on-site and online, and our partners at EBS for co-organising this conference.”
