What will the EU’s new defense and industrial strategy give Ukraine?

Integration and support of the Ukrainian defense industry have become one of the goals of the European Defense Industrial Strategy (EDIS).

As reported by the Ministry of Strategic Industries, the strategy proposes that Ukrainian industry can participate in the EU program to support the defense industry. Ukraine can participate in joint purchases, and Ukrainian defense companies will be supported as they build their capacities and cooperation with European industry.

The agreement also stimulates collaboration between Ukrainian and European industries and the exchanging of information regarding standards and experience. The EU will hold the EU-Ukraine Defense Industry Forum in 2024 to strengthen this cooperation.

Also, the EU will open an Innovation Office in Kyiv to ensure interaction between EU startups, innovators, industry, and the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The strategy is accompanied by the Defense Industry Program (EDIP). The document must be agreed upon by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU.