Strasbourg – The Czech Republic is set to receive over €2 billion from the newly announced European Union financial instrument, SAFE, as reported by the European Commission. Nineteen countries have submitted applications for funding through the SAFE program, which allocates loans for military equipment, with a total of €150 billion (€3.7 trillion) earmarked for these countries. Among the allocations, Poland has requested the largest sum, amounting to €43.7 billion (over €1 trillion).
Member states are now tasked with preparing their national investment plans detailing how they intend to utilize the financial assistance, with submissions due by the end of November. The Commission will evaluate these plans to facilitate the first disbursements starting in early 2026.
The purpose of SAFE is to enhance the defense capabilities of the European Union while helping member states tackle critical shortages and fostering joint procurement of defense products. The program will offer long-term, low-cost loans to assist member states in acquiring urgently needed military equipment. It will also be available to Ukraine in partnership with at least one EU country, as well as to Norway, Switzerland, and nations with defense partnership agreements with the EU, including Britain. (September 9)
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