The European Commission has approved a €1.5 billion work program under the European Defence Industrial Programme (EDIP) to modernize the European defense industry, which includes strengthening cooperation with Ukraine, the Commission’s press service reports.
“EDIP tackles pressing challenges in European defence and security by boosting industrial production capacities, reinforcing cooperation with Ukraine, strengthening joint European procurement and developing European defence projects of common interest, marking a significant step in the EU's efforts to improve Europe's security,” the press release states.
Specifically, over €700 million is allocated to increasing the production of key defense components and products, including anti-drone systems, missiles, and ammunition. This includes €260 million under the Ukraine Support Instrument (USI) for investment in joint projects, which will boost production capacity both in Ukraine and Europe.
€325 million is earmarked for European Defence Projects of Common Interest (EDPCI). These projects are also open to Norway and Ukraine.
€240 million is allocated for joint procurement by EU Member States and Norway of defense equipment, including counter-drone systems, air and missile defense systems, and land and naval combat systems. Procurer consortia can apply for grants of up to €20 million per project.
Defense startups, including small and medium-sized enterprises and small-cap companies, will receive €100 million in support through the Defence Supply Chain Transformation Acceleration Fund (FAST). Under the BraveTech EU initiative, the new defense innovation program will receive an additional €35.3 million from the USI to support Ukrainian and European industries, fostering innovations to address the urgent challenges facing the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The first EDIP call for proposals will be available on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal starting 31 March 2026.
