Ireland set to speed up defence spending by signing up to 150bn EU programme
Briefly

The SAFE initiative, launched by the EU, seeks to bolster Europe's sovereignty and defense capabilities by financing urgent investments in defense technology. Tánaiste Simon Harris is set to sign the legislative instrument, expediting Ireland's defense procurement processes by up to two years for key areas such as air defense, maritime surveillance, and drones. Ireland's commitment to enhancing military capabilities aims to align with those of other EU nations. Additionally, SAFE facilitates common procurement opportunities and supports Ukraine's defense industry integration.
The aim of the programme is to finance urgent and large-scale investments in defence technology to strengthen Europe's overall defence readiness.
Mr Harris, who is also Minister for Defence, says he has been 'steadfast' in his commitment to invest in the Irish military.
The European Commission says that member states that wish to invest in defence industrial production can do so through common procurement to boost production capacity.
This initiative will allow the EU to further support Ukraine by associating its defence industry to the SAFE initiative from the start.
Read at Irish Independent
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