The SAFE programme, part of the European Defence strategy for 2030, offers EUR 150 billion in loans for EU defence investments. The preferential lending programme was established during the Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU, at the initiative of the Polish Presidency. For Poland it is simply a chance to modernise the army and strengthen defence capabilities. This appropriation is intended to cover, inter alia, the acquisition of military equipment and ammunition.
On Friday, the government adopted a resolution authorising the Ministry of National Defence to declare Poland's participation in the SAFE programme.
Poland submitted an first declaration to the EC for the acquisition of a debt under the EU SAFE programme. We want this fund to strengthen the key capabilities of the Polish Army and our safety programs, including the Tarcza East programme – reported on the X Kosiniak-Kamish platform and added – The acquisition of these funds is simply a real investment in the safety and improvement of our arms industry. It besides strengthens security, deterrence and defence capabilities across the EU and NATO.
Defence against aggressor
It is not yet known which circumstantial projects – in addition to initiatives within the framework Eastern Shields, on defence infrastructure at the east border – will receive support from EU funds. However, the government indicated that 1 of the objectives is besides to strengthen the national armaments industry, including through orders for its key products specified as Piorun anti-aircraft kits, Krab cannonhaubice, and Borsuk combat infantry wagons.
SAFE is part of a broader plan to strengthen the European military possible in response, among others, to the reinforcements of Russia. Ukraine will besides be able to participate in the programme, in cooperation with at least 1 associate State, to strengthen its defence manufacture and support it in the war on Russia.
Up to €100 billion
On Tuesday, the European Commission informed that 9 countries had so far submitted applications for loans from SAFE: Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Spain, Finland, Hungary and Lithuania. As the EC spokesman, Thomas Regnier, said, soft term Applications pass from Tuesday to Wednesday at night.
On the another hand, Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius announced that at least 20 associate States would yet submit proposals. According to his estimates, the full amount of loans requested will exceed EUR 100 billion.
