The European Commission's nonsubjective is to make an EU military mobility zone, referred to by officials as "Schengen military". The concept implies harmonisation of rules and procedures and the creation of a network of land corridors, seaports and airports that will enable fast and efficient transport of troops in crisis situations. Currently, infrastructure in Europe, including roads, bridges and railway lines, is not adapted to the transport of dense military equipment, which can lead to major logistical problems, says RMF FM.
MEP Dariusz Joński of the EP Defence Committee stressed in an interview with RMF FM that the transport of tanks from the West to the east flank of the EU may face serious obstacles. “They could be stuck in tunnels, in complex bureaucracy, and bridges couldn’t withstand these machines,” he says.
Further string of article under video material
When will the European Commission present a plan for military transport?
What does the word 'Schengen military' mean?
What are the main objectives of the fresh European Commission plan?
What obstacles can military transport in Europe face?
The EC plans to remove specified bottlenecks and to harmonise rules on cross-border military transport. Currently, the process of obtaining travel permits can take up to respective days.
"Schengen War". European Commission plans
The Commission besides wants to introduce a digitalisation of customs logistics, which will enable faster and more efficient management of military transport. The fresh plan besides provides for "emergency frameworks" to let urgent movement of the armed forces if necessary. Brussels intends to encourage associate States to solidarity on military resources, including the sharing of equipment.
One of the solutions under consideration is the creation of a common dual-purpose transport rolling stock, consisting of specialised wagons and locomotives. This rolling stock would be available at different locations and times, providing a common pool of EU military resources.
Poland is peculiarly committed to ensuring that the fresh strategy is in line with NATO activities. According to RMF FM, the European Commission is preparing papers in close cooperation with the North Atlantic Alliance.
