Member of the European Parliament Aura Salla (NCP, EPP) has been appointed as the Rapporteur for the European Parliament’s Committee on Industry on the EU’s first defense preparedness simplification package. This is one of the most significant legislative projects of the parliamentary term, laying the foundation for strengthening Europe’s defense industry.
“In these times, Europe must do everything possible to immediately enhance its defense readiness and capabilities. We cannot rely solely on U.S. support to secure Europe’s defense. My goal is a negotiation outcome that guarantees rapid growth of Europe’s defense industry and promotes the defense readiness of member states and NATO,” says Salla.
The Commission’s proposal aims to revise the EU regulatory framework so that the rapid development and deployment of new defense capabilities can succeed across the Union. This includes, among other things, removing bottlenecks in public procurement, speeding up authorization processes, and facilitating cross-border cooperation.
“Recent events in Poland show that Member States must have the ability and capacity to respond quickly and cohesively to growing threats. The EU’s role is to support NATO by strengthening the defense industry—its capacity, the internal market, joint procurements, and access to financing. Improving military mobility is also a concrete example of the EU’s role in strengthening European defense,” Salla adds.
The defense preparedness simplification package aims to remove bottlenecks in public procurement, authorization procedures, reporting obligations, and cross-border cooperation. The purpose is to ease existing legislation related to defense and the European Defense Fund (EDF), eliminate regulatory barriers, and strengthen Europe’s defense industry. The goal is to enhance seamless cooperation between EU countries and NATO and to ensure that simplified legislation fosters investments, growth, and innovation in the European defense industry.
“This task is especially significant for any MEP and Member State. As a longtime advocate for stronger European defense capabilities and EU unity, the swift and effective adoption of this legislation is a personal honor. Strong defense, ensuring comprehensive security, and defending Europe’s sovereignty are among the most important duties for both Finland and myself,” Salla concludes.
The Committee on Industry is the largest and permanent committee of the Parliament, primarily responsible for strengthening European industrial policy.
