The UK is ramping up its efforts to collaborate with European allies on joint weapons production, according to a new statement from Defence Minister Maria Eagle. The move comes as part of a wider push to strengthen continental security cooperation and boost industrial capability in response to growing global threats.
In a written response to a parliamentary question from Liberal Democrat MP Edward Morello, Eagle confirmed that Defence Secretary John Healey is in “regular” talks with European partners on “joint production, procurement and future development” of defence capabilities.
The UK’s efforts are focused on both new and existing multinational frameworks, as officials seek to streamline procurement and bolster strategic resilience across Europe.
Eagle cited recent engagements in March, including bilateral meetings with her French counterpart in Paris on 11 March and participation in the E5 defence ministers’ meeting on 12 March, where broader industrial collaboration was discussed.
The E5 group comprising the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain has increasingly emerged as a key forum for European defence coordination in the wake of Russia’s war in Ukraine and wider global instability.
This announcement comes amid renewed calls for a more integrated European defence policy, with leaders warning that Europe must be able to “stand on its own feet” in terms of arms production and military readiness, especially in light of shifting US foreign policy under Donald Trump.
While no specific joint weapons systems have been publicly announced yet, sources within the Ministry of Defence indicate that cooperation could include missile systems, drone technologies, and advanced artillery platforms.
With NATO preparing for its 80th anniversary summit this summer, UK officials are expected to continue pushing for closer defence industrial partnerships as part of a broader agenda to strengthen the alliance’s deterrence capabilities.
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