1 minute read / September 29, 2026
The Council has approved five European Defence Projects of Common Interest (EDPCIs) to strengthen Europe’s defence readiness and industrial capacity. The projects will bring European countries together to develop critical capabilities in drones and counter-drone systems, maritime and seabed defence, space, air and missile defence, and the protection of Europe’s eastern flank.
EDPCIs were introduced by the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) adopted by the EU in 2025. They are collaborative industrial projects designed to contribute to the development of member states’ military capabilities that are critical for the security and defence interests of the Union. The projects allow EU countries to work together on major defence initiatives that are too large or too complex for individual countries to develop on their own.
The five selected projects are now eligible to receive EU funding through the EDIP. The funding will enable the projects’ initial deployment and lay the foundation for possible further funding via the upcoming European Competitiveness Fund.
