Protecting Europe

The EU’s long-term budget significantly boosts funding for defence, security, space, and migration management. It aims to build a European defence union, that is ready to protect, connect, and respond whenever needed.

Key figures

€131 billion

for defence, security and space

10x

more funding for military mobility

€81 billion

for migration management, external borders and internal security

Addressing strategic challenges

Unprecedented security threats: Rising global tensions require increased readiness and fast response capability.
Strategic European spending: Investing in European innovation and production strengthens EU independence and capabilities.
Pressures on borders: Increased pressure on Europe’s external borders requires enhanced capacity for border management.

Investing in defence, security and space

Through the European Competitiveness Fund, the EU will dedicate €131 billion to support investment in defence, security, and space — a fivefold increase compared to the current budget period.

Defence support
Member States and regions will be able to support defence-related projects voluntarily, aligned with national and regional priorities.
Military mobility
Military mobility funding under the Connecting Europe Facility will increase tenfold, enabling infrastructure that serves civilian and military needs.
Energy security
Cross-border energy and transport projects will be supported to enhance Europe’s energy security.
Critical investments
Investments will also strengthen cybersecurity, transport, and critical infrastructure development.

A firm and fair approach to migration and security

To address migration and internal security challenges, the new budget will allocate €81 billion - three times more than the current MFF.

Rapid response
Funds will support Member States to respond rapidly to developments on the ground.
Border security
Border guards will be equipped with the tools and technology needed to protect the EU’s external borders.
Law enforcement
Investments will also strengthen cybersecurity, transport, and critical infrastructure development.
Migration reform
The funding will help implement the Pact on Migration and Asylum, ensuring a migration system that is fair, firm, and forward-looking.

What this means for the EU

With this long-term budget, the EU is taking important steps to

keep Europe safer and more secure, with faster responses to global crises
strengthen its own defence and security capabilities
support innovation in defence across regions and Member States
build a fair and firm migration management system, while keeping borders secure and well-managed.