Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The 2024 European Defence Fund saw a record 298 proposals, reflecting a 25% increase in submissions.
European Commission revealed that the EU defence industry, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and research organisations submitted a record elevated number of proposals under the 2024 European Defence Fund (EDF) calls for proposals. A total of 298 proposals contested for financing worth €1.1 billion for collaborative EU defence research and development (R&D) schemes.
Commission said that this illustrates the highest number of proposals received since the Fund was founded in 2021, with an overall growth of 25% compared to last year. Also, it includes a record-breaking number of proposals presented under the non-thematic calls targeting SMEs and research organisations, with a 28% growth compared to 2023.
In her remarks, Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President for A Europe Fit for the Digital Age, stated: ‘‘I am delighted to see the continuously growing interest from the European defence industry to collaborate in the context of the European Defence Fund. At a time when European defence readiness is paramount, it is encouraging to witness the commitment of the defence industry, including an increasing number of SMEs, to build a stronger defence technological base and develop cutting-edge defence capabilities.”
What areas will the 2024 EDF funding support?
However, the proposals proposed fall under all the thematic priorities settled with the EU Member States. These EDF 2024 calls for proposals will fund projects in many critical defence capability domains, including the growth of a next-generation armoured infantry fighting vehicle, of abilities to counter hypersonic missiles, a broad range of unmanned air and ground systems, an autonomous serious mine sweeping system and secure space communications.
How will new projects strengthen European defence capabilities?
It has been said that the submitted proposals will also pave the path for the development of next-generation defence venues, such as platforms for helicopters and mid-size cargo planes. EDF 2024 calls also provide reliable support for defence innovation, especially for SMEs, and promote inclusiveness via the European Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS), which benefits from a total funding of €225 million.
