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and commitments to collective defence with NATO. 1he debate over European
strategic autonomy also touches upon other sensitive issues, such as the role
of nuclear deterrence. Although France has suggested a strategic dialogue on
her possible contribution to a European nuclear deterrence capacity, this offer
has not been taken up by other Member States, as several capitals consider
the US nuclear umbrella irreplaceable.
Last but not least, the idea of a European army, in the sense of a genuine
common military force, should also be mentioned here, as this has raised
hopes and concerns alike within and beyond the Union. In fact, no formal
talks have taken place on this subject, as no formal initiative has been put on
the negotiating table. It is worth noting that neither existing nor any future
European multinational rapid response forces can be considered an EU army
in classical terms.
As to the industrial aspect of European strategic autonomy, this is the
least controversial and disputed component of the concept. It has been
gradually realised by Member States that the security of production capacities,
technologies, and supply chains is essential for the freedom of action of
militaries, which can be hampered by limited access to products, spare parts,
or raw materials in crisis situations. Of course, it would be unnecessary and
too costly to produce everything in Europe.
However, after decades of deindustrialisation, a sustained effort is needed
to reduce acute dependencies on external markets through different measures,
like the diversification of supply chains, materials substitution, or creating
technology alliances. The European Commission is taking an active role in
addressing technological dependencies at the EU level: the European Defence
Fund has been launched with the precise purpose of operationalising the
concept of enhanced autonomy through a 7.9-billion-euro budget aimed at
financing defence research and development actions between 2021 and 2027.
The meaning and scope of European strategic autonomy is still lacking a
consensus among EU Member States. Nevertheless, the fact that this concept,
despite its ambiguity, is high on the Union's political and policy agendas shows
that it can provide a positive theoretical framework and generate positive
dynamics to promote European security and defence.
Autonomy is not an absolute objective, rather a direction in which the
EU should gradually move. The Strategic Compass, to be adopted in March
2022, should deepen and sharpen the Union’s vision along these objectives.
A stronger and more capable EU in the field of security and defence is in the
interest of not only its Member States and citizens, but also its partners, as it
will lead to a stronger European pillar within NATO and a fairer transatlantic
burden-sharing.