The European Union countries agreed on 8 September that Ukraine should allocate €3.2 billion from the EU support mechanics for components for Patriot systems produced outside Europe. The exception to purchasing rules opens the way for faster strengthening of air defence, but besides reveals Europe's industrial dependence on external suppliers.
Exception for urgent defence needs
Ursula von der Leyen informed about the EU's agreement to derogate from the rules in force under the support debt to Ukraine. Kiev will be able to usage €3.2 billion for components for Patriot systems originating outside Europe. Consent was essential due to the fact that standard rules direct procurement to Ukrainian or European industry.
It's a sensible decision in war conditions. Regulations must not take precedence before the ability to shoot down a rocket flying towards a city or a power station. European Commission explains Ukrainian Support debt pagethat the exception can be applied to urgent operational needs erstwhile the manufacture in Ukraine and Europe is incapable to deliver the equipment needed within the appropriate number and time.
€3.2 billion reveals Europe's weakness
The amount shows the scale of needs, but besides a deeper problem. Europe spends a large deal of money on security, and with 1 of the most crucial air defence systems, it must be allowed to acquisition outside its own industrial base. The continent has capital and technological facilities, but for years neglected to produce ammunition and build reserves. Now the war time of transportation imposes rules.
A fewer days earlier Ukraine was waiting to consider the motion for billions on Patriots. The affirmative decision closes the procedural phase, but does not solve the problem of rocket availability. Money doesn't capture rockets. We request ready effectors, transport, trained crews and efficient service.
Poland needs participation, not the function of the payer
Polish business is double. The more effective air defence of Ukraine binds Russian capabilities further distant from our territory and reduces the hazard of attacks close the border. At the same time, all multi-billion-dollar European programme should strengthen production on the continent, including plants in Poland, alternatively of perpetuating a permanent dependence on external suppliers.
Warsaw should request transparency of terms, transportation dates and an industrial return for countries financing the common policy. It's not about blocking Ukraine's help. The aim is that safety spending should leave competence, workplaces, service and supplies in Poland. Otherwise, erstwhile the tranche is completed, the account will stay and the production capacity will proceed to be elsewhere.
An exception is needed now. For the future, however, it is an act of accusation against European arms policy. A continent that wants to talk with its own voice must be able to produce defenses in its own factories.
Source: Bankier.pl, European Commission
Source: Bankier.pl
