EU Approves Defence Funding for Czech Republic and France

The EU Council has adopted implementing decisions granting financial assistance under the SAFE instrument to two additional member states, the Czech Republic and France. SAFE is an EU financial tool designed to support investment in the defence industry through the joint procurement of priority capabilities.

The decision follows earlier assistance packages for several EU countries approved in February. For the Czech Republic, the European Commission has earmarked a maximum loan of €2.06 billion, including €309 million in pre-financing. France may receive around €15.09 billion, of which approximately €2.26 billion will be provided upfront.

The approval comes after the Commission gave a positive assessment of both countries’ national defence investment plans. The first disbursements are expected in the coming weeks, aimed at enabling the purchase of modern equipment and strengthening defence capabilities.

Following the decision, the Commission will conclude loan agreements with the two countries and proceed with the release of pre-financing.

The SAFE regulation was adopted on 27 May 2025 as part of the Readiness 2030 package, which seeks to boost investment in Europe’s defence industry and increase the availability of military capabilities.

(consilium.europa.eu, bak)