Brussels is set to host a high-level gathering of European defence and security leaders on Wednesday, as the continent grapples with the urgent need to bolster military readiness and respond to a widening array of threats. The Euronews Defence & Space Summit, held at the Albert Hall, will bring together NATO and EU officials, defence ministers, military commanders, and industry representatives from across Europe.
Among the confirmed participants are NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius, European Commission Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, and Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev. Their presence underscores the growing political weight attached to defence cooperation within the EU and NATO.
Rising defence budgets and joint procurement
A central theme of the summit will be Europe's efforts to increase defence investment while reducing the fragmentation that has long characterised national armed forces and industries. The EU is advancing a defence-readiness agenda aimed at expanding production capacity and fostering deeper collaboration between member states. Kubilius has been a vocal advocate for improving military mobility across the continent, pointing to the logistical hurdles of moving troops and equipment swiftly across borders.
Discussions will also cover procurement strategies, financing mechanisms, and the development of European defence capabilities. The presence of industry leaders highlights the growing emphasis on building a more integrated and resilient defence industrial base, capable of meeting the demands of modern warfare.
Hybrid threats and cybersecurity in focus
Recent incidents involving drones and other suspected hybrid activities have sharpened attention on the protection of critical infrastructure. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has described these events as part of a "new era of European security," while Kubilius has called for a more robust EU response to hybrid threats.
The summit will examine how governments can shield critical networks from state-sponsored cyber attacks and other subversive actions. Henna Virkkunen, whose portfolio includes technology sovereignty and security, is expected to address the role of secure digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and cloud policy in safeguarding Europe's digital backbone.
Strengthening Europe's defence industry
Another key topic will be the reinforcement of Europe's defence industrial base. Governments are seeking to ramp up production while addressing supply-chain vulnerabilities and the disparities between national procurement systems. The summit will feature representatives from defence companies, European institutions, and industry organisations, reflecting a collective push to enhance manufacturing capacity alongside increased military spending.
NATO's eastern flank and EU-NATO coordination
The ministerial and military discussions take place against the backdrop of heightened concern over security along NATO's eastern flank. Rutte has repeatedly stressed the need for NATO to maintain the capabilities required to respond to security threats, while European officials have called for stronger coordination between the EU and NATO.
Military leaders attending include General Seán Clancy, Chairman of the EU Military Committee, and General Onno Eichelsheim, Chief of Defence of the Netherlands Armed Forces. Their participation signals the importance of aligning military planning and operational readiness across the continent.
The summit will be broadcast live by Euronews on Wednesday, with the programme beginning at 09:00 CEST. As Europe confronts a more volatile security environment, the outcomes of this gathering could shape the continent's defence posture for years to come.
