Position paper - European Defence Fund - Remaining questions and challenges

The American Chamber of Commerce to the European Union (AmCham EU) is pleased with the outcome of the EDF negotiations as policy-makers found a balance between inclusive investments for the EU defence sector and ensuring that the security and defence interests of the EU and its Member States are protected. Not only will the framework, largely based on the outcome of the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP) ensure policy coherence, but it will allow European entities with third country ownership to continue to play their part in strengthening the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB).

While policy-makers have given recognition to the global nature of the sector with this outcome, there is still uncertainty with regards to some aspects pertaining to the role of Member States, third country entity participation and restrictions on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). AmCham EU recommends that in order to provide clarity and facilitate the smooth implementation of the EDF, a comprehensive guide for both applicants and national authorities needs to be created.

For more information, please contact Florian Gleissner (fgl@amchameu.eu).