Brussels (ANSA) – Italy is set to receive 14.9 billion euros from the 150 billion allocated under the Safe program, part of RearmEU. A total of 19 European nations have applied for loans from the European Commission. “Today we are sending a strong political message,” stated Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius.
Poland leads the allocations with 43 billion euros, followed by France, Romania, and Hungary, each receiving around 16 billion. These figures are preliminary, as each country must now submit a “detailed plan” by November outlining how they will utilize the funds.
Commission technicians will then review the plans to verify that they align with regulatory criteria. If approved, the EU Council is expected to give the green light by year’s end, with funds likely to be transferred to member states around the first quarter of 2026.
“Safe is a historic success for the EU,” noted Kubilius. “With the white paper on Defense, we committed to supporting the rearmament of European states and Ukraine, and less than six months later, here we are.” Safe offers loans at competitive rates and extended terms for urgent, large-scale procurement, ensuring the European defense industry can provide necessary equipment promptly.
To enhance effectiveness and minimize fragmentation, projects will utilize joint procurement involving at least one member state benefiting from Safe alongside other member states, as well as Ukraine and the EEA-EFTA countries. However, due to current geopolitical circumstances, Safe will also support the individual member states’ procurement to ensure timely delivery of essential goods.
The EU loans under the new program will enable long-term financing at competitive prices and favorable conditions for member states that apply. The terms of these loans are bolstered by the EU’s strong credit rating (as of September 9).
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