British arms companies are set to be locked out of a huge £125 billion EU defense fund—unless the Government agrees to sign a security pact with Brussels. The Security Action for Europe (SAFE) scheme, unveiled by the European Commission, is designed to boost Europe’s military capabilities amid increasing concerns over Russian aggression and future NATO commitments.
However, only EU-based defense firms or companies from countries that have signed specific defense agreements with the bloc will be allowed to benefit. That means UK, US, and Turkish defense firms are all currently excluded—despite Britain’s significant contributions to European security. The move is being seen as a win for France, which has long pushed for a “Buy European” approach to military investment, ensuring the bulk of the money stays within EU nations.
