The US opposes EU defense directive changes that would limit American industry’s participation in European defense contracts.
US Opposes EU Defense Directive Changes
The United States fully supports European arms and the revitalization of Europe’s defense industrial base. However, these actions cannot weaken the transatlantic defense industrial base, threaten our common ability to provide equipment to our soldiers, or harm common economic benefits.
Therefore, the United States firmly opposes any changes to the directive that would limit the ability of the US industry to support or otherwise participate in national public procurement for defense purposes of EU member states.
Weakening Ties with the United States
Americans also pointed out that a protectionist and exclusionary policy that isolates American companies from the market is not the right way to act, especially while the largest European defense companies still significantly benefit from access to the US market.
American companies are deeply integrated with the European economy and supply chain, employ thousands of European citizens in highly skilled positions, and help Europe deliver reliable capabilities. Eliminating the US industry would ultimately prevent European countries from acquiring the capabilities they need for their own defense and weaken ties between the United States and 23 of the 32 NATO allies.
If the EU decided to change the directive, the United States would likely review all existing general waivers and exceptions from the “Buy American” regulations.
European Union Seeks Single Defense Market
On Monday, public consultations on changes to the EU defense directive ended. In October, the European Commission announced an amendment to the document aimed at creating “a true single market for defense products and services.”
The overriding goal is to ensure that member states can quickly, affordably, and coordinatedly purchase defense equipment and critical security equipment, while simultaneously supporting the resilience and technological autonomy of the European Defense Technological and Industrial Base.
Paradox in US Approach to Europe
Politico.eu noted that Washington’s comments highlight the paradox in the US approach to Europe. While the Trump administration repeatedly told Europeans that it wants them to take on a greater share of the continent’s conventional defense, the US does not want this to come at the expense of American defense companies.
