Reference Message Network reported on April 29 according to a report on April 27 on the website of Germany's Die Welt, sometimes the difference between success and failure is not in billions of funds but in the slightest margin. Ukraine has received many firearms and ammunitions from the EU, most of which meet the NATO cartridge standard of 5.56×45 millimeters, but some are either slightly larger in caliber or slightly longer in bullet body. This means that after a soldier runs out of his own bullets, he may not be able to use his comrades' bullets.

The calibers of howitzers produced by European countries also vary, and the fuels used for military vehicles produced are different; even if they are all diesel, they are not interchangeable. Sometimes the armies of EU A country cannot refuel tanks produced by EU B country. In addition, there are problems with the distribution of spare parts.

Reports said that strengthening armament has become a consensus in Europe. The European Commission plans to borrow 15 billion euros for this purpose, but if Croatia's rifles cannot use France's produced bullets, what's the point? One problem that money cannot solve is that although the European integration process has lasted for more than 70 years, the trust among European countries is still not deep enough, especially in defense issues. Therefore, relying solely on money is not enough to strengthen the EU's military capabilities.

A survey report by the German Institute for Economic Research concluded that Europe's defense industry is too fragmented. In 2022, only 18% of the military equipment purchased by EU countries were through multilateral joint procurement, far below the EU's set target of 35%. This has led to Europe being equipped with various types of weapon systems at high costs. The authors of the report pointed out that cooperation can save EU countries 24.5 to 75.5 billion euros annually.

The European defense industry is fragmented across multiple countries, and most military companies in these countries supply only their domestic markets with very little output compared to the U.S. The authors of the report said this has led to Europe having much more non-interchangeable weapon systems than the U.S. On the other hand, EU countries also prioritize purchasing products from their own national defense industries. Although there are joint military projects like Airbus A400M military transport aircraft or Eurofighter jets, there are numerous examples of countries developing similar military products independently.

For example, the European Defense Agency stated that Europe currently has 12 main battle tanks, while the U.S. only has one. From handguns to frigates, most military products in Europe have similar situations. Therefore, experts suggest that EU countries should tender within the EU when purchasing military equipment to fully utilize internal market competition and reduce procurement costs through large-scale production.

Experts from the German Institute for Economic Research suggested that the EU should prioritize cooperation in the following areas of the defense industry: first is research and development because technological progress can "decide the outcome of wars"; second is defending against cyber attacks, exploring the military application of artificial intelligence, and air defense; lastly logistics, medical rescue, intelligence, and satellite reconnaissance.

The EU seems to need a long time to build up sufficient independent self-defense capabilities. Because just as Europe depends on other regions for energy and raw materials, Europe also relies on other regions for military equipment. More than 75% of military spending by European countries flows to third countries, most of which go to the United States. However, it seems that Europe does indeed have the motivation to strengthen military integration at present. (Compiled by Wang Qin)

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7498564676386423347/

Disclaimer: This article only represents the views of the author. Welcome to express your attitude by clicking the 'like/dislike' button below.