Europe faces a growing challenge in balancing defense spending with strategic independence. With €454 billion allocated for military investment this year, European nations are investing heavily in modernization. Yet reliance on American-made weapons, surveillance systems, and missile technology persists, casting doubt on the continent’s ability to act autonomously in times of crisis. The fragmented nature of the European defense market, coupled with inconsistent cooperation on joint programs, undermines efforts toward unified security. Political priorities, national sovereignty concerns, and complex procurement processes continue to slow progress.
Experts Ian Lesser and Linus Terhorst examine these dynamics in depth, discussing the limits of current collaboration and the risks of overdependence on U.S. support. They assess what might happen if Europe had to defend itself without American backing, evaluating the viability of a stronger European defense union. As border tensions increase and global instability grows, the debate over self-reliance becomes more pressing. This report offers a clear look at the obstacles and potential paths forward in shaping a more cohesive European defense posture.