European defense autonomy: Kiel Institute puts a price on it ⚑ A paper by five senior German defense economists and industry executives, published by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, concludes European military autonomy is achievable: €50B/year for a decade, €150–200B by 2030. Ten specific capability gaps identified, including command and control, drone mass production, deep strike, and a European Starlink equivalent.
- New today: The paper is being widely circulated ahead of NATO’s Sword 26 exercises along the eastern flank.
- Why it matters: ⚑ This is the first serious costed framework for European autonomy at the continental level. At ~0.25% of GDP annual incremental cost, it is politically fundable if the political will holds. Marks the transition from debate to procurement planning.
- Source: Defense News
Bankwatch 