The European Union is opening new pathways for defence autonomy by integrating Ukraine’s defence industrial base into the SAFE mechanism, a flagship financial instrument under the “ReArm Europe/Readiness 2030” plan. On December 29, Ukraine’s Defence Ministry outlined how SAFE is designed to strengthen EU military capabilities through joint procurement and accelerated investment in critical defence capacities, while formally recognising Ukraine as a capable and reliable industrial partner within the European defence ecosystem, as reported by ArmyInform.
From its inception, SAFE has envisaged Ukrainian participation on equal terms with EU member states. A dedicated EU working group has already been established to expand cooperation with Ukraine’s defence industry, alongside Kyiv’s involvement in the Defence Industry Programme. This framework allows Ukrainian companies to join joint procurement projects together with EU states, embedding them directly into European defence supply chains.
Expanding production capacity and closing capability gaps
Through SAFE, Ukrainian defence enterprises become official suppliers in EU-backed contracts, reinforcing the overall strength of Europe’s defence-industrial base. The mechanism provides access to new manufacturing chains, interoperability standards and industrial cooperation models, while enabling European defence firms to tap into additional production capacity at a time of acute shortages in ammunition, air defence systems and advanced military equipment.
SAFE is expected to mobilise up to €150 billion for investment in critical defence capabilities, including ammunition production, weapons systems, air and missile defence, and naval, land and aviation platforms. European governments are able to procure Ukrainian-made defence products using SAFE funds, increasing supply flexibility and fostering competition across the European market.
Technology exchange and industrial integration
Joint SAFE projects create channels for technology transfer and innovation between Ukrainian and European manufacturers. This cooperation supports the adoption of new solutions and shared standards, enhancing the innovative potential of both sides while reducing reliance on single-source suppliers. Ukrainian experience in areas such as unmanned systems and battlefield-tested production processes is viewed in Brussels as particularly valuable for closing existing technological gaps within the EU.
At the same time, the programme promotes the creation of shared markets and integrated supply chains, improving cost efficiency and strengthening the export potential of Europe’s defence sector. Harmonised procurement under SAFE also supports the unification of weapons standards, improving interoperability during joint operations and exercises across Europe.
Strategic and political implications
Beyond industrial benefits, the integration of Ukraine’s defence sector through SAFE deepens political and strategic cooperation between Kyiv and Brussels. For the EU, it secures a capable security partner on its eastern flank amid heightened geopolitical tension and the ongoing threat posed by Russia. For Ukraine, SAFE represents a concrete step towards full participation in the European defence space.
EU officials see the SAFE framework as a precedent for future defence initiatives involving partner countries. The experience gained through Ukraine’s integration is expected to inform broader EU approaches to strengthening collective security, resilience and strategic autonomy in an increasingly volatile security environment.
