MEPs backed the European Defense Industry Reinforcement through the common Procurement Act (EDIRPA) on Tuesday. The regulation establishes a short-term instrument for the reinforcement of the European defense industry through common procurement until 31 December 2025. It will help member states to fill their most urgent and critical defense needs. The instrument will allow more support to Ukraine and Moldova, IPN reports, quoting a press release of the European Parliament.
A 300 million euros budget will finance the instrument. Joint purchases will have to involve at least three member states, and should be open to the participation of members of the European Free Trade Association which are members of the European Economic Area (associated countries). Contractors and subcontractors must be established in the EU or in an associated country, and not be subject to control by a non-associated third country or entity. The cost of components originating in the EU or associated countries shall not be lower than 65% of the estimated value of the end product.
According to the co-rapporteur for Foreign Affairs committee Michael Gahler, today’s vote marks a historic moment for EU defense, establishing the first EU instrument for joint procurement by member states. It will help them to refill their stocks, increase interoperability among their armed forces, strengthen the industry and contribute to the unwavering support for Ukraine.
C-rapporteur for Industry, Research and Energy committee Zdzislaw Krasnodębski said that they reached a reasonable compromise that will make EDIRPA complementary to another regulation important for the defense sector: the Act in Support of Ammunition Production. “We managed to defend the Parliament's priorities, including for projects that will support Ukraine or Moldova. Most importantly, by intensifying the joint procurement of military equipment, EDIRPA will help to strengthen member states’ defense capabilities,” stated the MEP.
The legislation now requires the EU Council’s formal approval in order to become law.
