EU: Defence Omnibus Simplification Proposal – Permit-granting 

 

The EU Commission has published a proposal for a regulation on the acceleration of permit-granting for defence readiness projects. 

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has highlighted the urgent need to strengthen the EU-wide market for defence products so that Member States can better prepare for evolving security threats. The conflict has revealed weaknesses in Europe’s defence ecosystem and underscored the importance of a more integrated and resilient industrial base. A well-functioning EU defence market is crucial to ensure access to the capabilities, technologies, and equipment required to address both current and future challenges effectively. 

Shifts in the geopolitical environment have had a major impact on the EU defence market, causing supply chain disruptions, driving up demand for defence products, and increasing the need for interoperable and innovative solutions. However, the current legislative framework is not well suited to these new realities, limiting the ability of Member States to respond quickly and effectively. Designed largely for peacetime conditions, existing rules tend to be slow and do not sufficiently encourage investment in defence research and development—particularly in light of the goal to mobilize at least €800 billion in defence investments over the next four years, as outlined in the Joint White Paper on defence readiness. 

The proposed Regulation introduces simplified permitting procedures for defence readiness projects. Under this framework, Member States will designate a national competent authority to serve as a single point of contact responsible for coordinating and facilitating permits, supporting economic operators, ensuring transparency of information, and enabling full digital submission of documentation. The Regulation also establishes clear timelines for the permitting process.