Commission calls for more research on defence
The European Commission has adopted a communication on the requirements of the European defence equipment industry in its quest to support the European security and defence policy (ESDP). The proposals call for research into technologies to ensure Europe's security in the long term. Adopted by the Commission on 11 March, the communication proposes measures to make the European defence equipment sector more competitive. One such measure is the maintenance of a competitive technological industrial base. 'By placing the issues clearly in the context of industrial competitiveness, the European Commission is signalling the importance it attaches to developing policies which will give European companies in the defence industries, whether prime contractors or part of the tens of thousands of SMEs [small and medium sized enterprises] in subcontracting roles, the opportunity to remain at the leading edge of advanced technologies,' said EU Enterprise and Information Society Commissioner, Erkki Liikanen. In the area of research, the Commission will invite Member States, industry and the scientific community to both identify common needs and pool their know-how and investment so as to develop together those technologies which will ensure Europe's long term security. The Commission will launch a preparatory action aimed at coordinating such research at EU level. Funding for research in this area is likely to be in addition to that allocated under the Sixth Framework Programme for research.