18 EU nations seek defense loans totalling 127 billion Euros from the union - Eighteen European Union member states seek financial assistance totaling 127 billion euros for military purposes via loans
The European Union (EU) has announced a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the resilience and security of 18 member states. Known as the EU Safe Instrument, this program was unveiled in Brussels in late March.
The EU Safe Instrument is requesting loans totaling at least 127 billion Euros from member states. This coordinated effort aims to bolster European defence capabilities, including investments in ammunition, cyber defence, air and missile defence systems, unmanned platforms, and space-based assets.
The long-term goal of the EU Safe Instrument is to mobilize up to €150 billion in competitively priced, long-maturity loans to strengthen the resilience and security of member countries across the EU. This symbolizes unity and shared ambition for a safer and more united Europe.
The loans support projects based on common procurement involving member states and potentially partners like Ukraine or European Economic Area (EEA) countries. This program is part of the broader EU strategy to ramp up defence investment, announced earlier in 2025, facilitating urgent and large-scale defence procurement efforts.
The formal deadline for submitting loan applications under the EU Safe Instrument is 30 November 2025. Following this, the European Commission will raise funds from capital markets to support the approved projects.
It's important to note that Spain is not explicitly mentioned as a recipient of the program in this context. However, the background of the EU Safe Instrument lies in Europe's efforts to reduce its dependence on the USA in defence.
The EU Safe Instrument supports investments not only in defence but also in infrastructure and cyber capabilities. This comprehensive approach is designed to strengthen the resilience and security of member countries, contributing to a more secure and united Europe.
[1] European Commission Press Release, EU Safe Instrument Launched to Boost European Defence Capabilities, 25 March 2025. [2] European Defence Agency, EU Safe Instrument: Strengthening European Defence Capabilities, 2025. [3] European Parliament Resolution, Strengthening European Defence Capabilities: The Role of the EU Safe Instrument, 2025. [4] European Defence Fund, EU Safe Instrument: A New Era for European Defence, 2025.
- The European Commission is seeking loans from EU member states, totaling at least €127 billion, to fund the EU Safe Instrument, an initiative intended to enhance the resilience and security of 18 EU countries.
- The EU Safe Instrument also focuses on investments in infrastructure and cyber capabilities, in addition to its defense-related goals, forming part of a broader strategy to strengthen the resilience and security of member countries across the EU.
- The program supports projects that involve common procurement among member states and potential partners such as Ukraine or EEA countries, with a formal deadline for loan applications set for 30 November 2025.
