European ministers to sign deal on joint defence acquisition

Today, defence ministers from around the EU will meet to discuss and commit to a multilateral defence cooperation initiative, known as a permanent structured cooperation (PESCO)

In a show of post-Brexit unity, the deal–which does not include London– looks to cut wasteful military expenditures by funding and developing military equipment across the continent. It would also look to create a Schengen-style area that would promote the free movement of troops and equipment across participating countries, the common training of officers and the establishment of a crisis response centre.

Still, Germany and France diverge on certain details. Paris favours having a small group of countries bring funding and military resources, whereas Berlin has pushed for a broader, more inclusive pact. France believes a larger organisation could decrease the pact’s effectiveness.

To the chagrin of Paris, it is unlikely that the pact will be limited to a select few countries as almost two-thirds of EU countries are expected to commit to the deal today. France is likely to support the coalition regardless, and it could come into force as early as December.

Start your day with an open-source intelligence briefing. Download The Daily Brief app.