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Global Europe and strategic sovereignty ] 161 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.
