The plan is hopes to improve and expand the bloc’s capabilities and industries with Backes advocating for Luxembourg’s active involvement, “We also have businesses active in the area [of defence], so we must ensure that they participate.”
While Backes was unwilling to unveil concrete steps in conversation with RTL, MEP Charles Goerens, who also joined the commission meeting, later expressed criticism of the envisioned European coordination efforts. Even if there is willingness, there are too many unknowns for Goerens to feel “carefully optimistic”, Goerens stated.
Greens MP Meris Šehović acknowledged the necessity of a joint strategy but cautioned that countries are already forced to make significant investments. He argued that these have to be utilised efficiently, avoiding that funds only go to major players and that Luxembourg businesses should be able to benefit from the initiative.
MP Georges Engel of the Luxembourg Socialist Workers’ Party (LSAP) voiced optimism over the Grand Duchy’s chances to attract new businesses specialised in air defence, including drone production.
The EDIS hopes to improve the coordination of investments, secure supply chains, and build new partnerships. The Strategy further aims for the following goals:
