New Opportunities for Defence Firms as EU Steps up Support for Ukraine

Why It Matters

An influx of €60 billion in defence financing expands the addressable market for EU defence suppliers, accelerating innovation and export growth.

Key Takeaways

• EU approves €90 billion loan, €60 billion for defence.
• Funding covers Ukraine’s military needs through 2027.
• Payments start April 2026, contingent on Ukraine’s consent.
• Defence startups gain access to sizable new contracts.
• European supply chain expected to scale rapidly.

Pulse Analysis

The European Union’s new €90 billion loan package marks a decisive escalation in its financial support for Ukraine, with €60 billion earmarked for defence spending. Announced by Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis, the loan spans 2026‑27 and is designed to keep Ukraine’s armed forces equipped amid ongoing conflict. By tying a substantial portion of the aid to military procurement, the EU signals a long‑term commitment that goes beyond short‑term emergency assistance, reinforcing its strategic partnership with Kyiv and its own security interests in Eastern Europe.

For European defence firms, the announcement translates into a multi‑billion‑euro pipeline of contracts across land, air and maritime domains. Startups offering niche technologies—such as unmanned aerial systems, electronic warfare suites, and rapid‑deployment logistics—stand to benefit from accelerated procurement cycles and reduced bureaucratic hurdles. Established manufacturers can leverage the funding to expand production capacity, while smaller innovators may secure joint‑venture opportunities with larger partners seeking to meet the diverse needs of the Ukrainian military. The anticipated April 2026 first payment creates a clear timeline for firms to align R&D, certification, and delivery schedules.

Strategically, the loan reshapes the competitive landscape of the global defence market. By channeling funds through EU mechanisms, the bloc aims to retain technology and jobs within Europe, counterbalancing the influence of non‑EU suppliers. The sustained financing also encourages deeper integration of defence supply chains among member states, fostering interoperability and standardisation. Looking ahead, the continued flow of resources through 2027 could cement Europe’s role as a primary defence partner for Ukraine, while driving long‑term innovation cycles that benefit both civilian and military sectors across the continent.

New opportunities for defence firms as EU steps up support for Ukraine

By Neil Thompson

The Shark is a fixed‑wing catapult‑launched ISR UAV developed by Ukrspecsystems. (Photo: Harry Lye)

The European Commission is looking for startups and other innovators to address challenges across the land, air and sea domains.

Europe is stepping up funding efforts for Ukraine, increasing the revenues available for defence firms designing, manufacturing or supplying the Ukrainian war effort through 2027.

Last week, the EU’s Commissioner for Economy Valdis Dombrovskis welcomed the European Council’s decision to approve, on 4 February 2026, a new €90 billion (US$106.79 billion) loan to Ukraine to cover the years 2026‑2027. Of this, €60 billion is for defence needs and €30 billion for budget support.

The commissioner anticipated that Ukraine would receive the first payment under the new loan by April this year, though its disbursement is subject to Ukraine agreeing…