As a non-EU country, the UK cannot fully participate in the €150 billion SAFE programme to rearm the bloc with European-made weapons, but a deal could be struck before a key deadline. This is seen as a win-win.
Breakdown
- The European Commission is confident a deal on UK participation in an EU defence programme will be reached within two weeks.
- Brussels and London have been negotiating since summer for UK entry into the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) programme. 13s
- SAFE aims to enhance joint procurement of European-made weapons amid the EU's rearmament drive against Russia. 22s
- EU member states must submit national plans for the €150 billion defence loan scheme by the end of November. 29s
- If the deal is finalized, the UK would be able to participate without the current 35% cap, similar to EU member states. 42s