North East Flank Group Recommendations on Ramping Up European Defence and Security Capability

As NATO leaders convene in The Hague on the 24th and 25th of June, the North East Flank Group has issued a joint statement higlighting the pivotal role of the broader business sector in underpinning Europe’s defence capability—not only as direct suppliers to the defence industry, but also as enablers of growth and societal resilience. This latest joint statement builds on the North East Flank business representatives’ messages to EU leaders on defence, security and preparedness 24/6/2024 and 30/1/2025, as the Group continues to emphasize the need for a structured dialogue between the public and private sector in finding sustainable solutions to security challenges.

The statement outlines key building blocks for ramping up Europe’s defence and security capabilities:

1. 1.
   Technology & Innovation – Investing in cutting-edge R&D and facilitating access to state-of-the-art technologies, including AI, is essential for modern defence systems.
2. 2.
   Simplification & Speed – Streamlining regulations and shortening lead times to match the pace of evolving threats.
3. 3.
   Investment & Risk-Sharing – Promoting co-investment models to strengthen the industrial base and reclaim existing capabilities.
4. 4.
   Production Readiness & Regional Cooperation – Coordinated, robust production capacity across member states serves as a deterrent and enhances preparedness.
5. 5.
   Skills & Talent – Developing and retaining a skilled workforce through cooperation with academia and tailored education programmes.
6. 6.
   Integrated Planning & Dialogue – Cross-sectoral project teams and deeper collaboration between public, private, and academic sectors.
7. 7.
   Strategic Supply Chains & Resilience – Identifying acceptable dependencies and ensuring the broader industrial ecosystem supports readiness.
8. 8.
   Flexible Contracts – Designing long-term but adaptable contracts in line with technological evolution.

Finally, the North East Flank Group reiterates the urgent need to maintain and step up support for Ukraine in its defence against Russia’s illegal war of aggression. Continued political, military, economic, and industrial assistance is essential not only for Ukraine’s sovereignty and freedom, but also for the stability and security of Europe as a whole.

Read the full North East Flank Group statement on Ramping Up European Defence and Security Capability below.