Europe urged to boost arms production amid Russian threat
Andrius Kubilius, the new European Union Commissioner for Defence, is calling for an increase in armaments in Europe. He believes the community is not prepared for a potential attack.
In an interview with "Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland," Kubilius critically assessed Europe's preparations for armed conflict:
- Unfortunately, this will not change within a few days just because we now have a defence commissioner. It will take years before Europe has the capabilities required by NATO's plans - emphasised Kubilius.
Russian threat
Kubilius referred to analyses by German and other countries' intelligence services as well as NATO representatives, predicting that by 2030, Russia may have the capability to attack EU countries. Despite sanctions, Russia is expected to expand its defence industry to "unimaginable proportions."
- Experts claim that Russia is currently producing more tanks than it deploys on the frontline, warned the EU commissioner.
Kubilius drew attention to the "countless tanks" in Russian warehouses, questioning Putin's intentions. - We can only speculate - he added, emphasising the need to prepare for a "crisis situation warned about by secret services."
Artillery is key
The commissioner noted that, like Ukraine, Europe must increase the production of conventional weapons, such as artillery and infantry fighting vehicles. - The war in that country shows that artillery is key, but long-range weapons and precision weapons are also extremely important - noted Kubilius.
Drones, according to the commissioner, could change the course of the war. - So when our military says we urgently need to increase the production of modern drones and electronic warfare equipment, we should do it - he emphasised in an interview with RND.
Collaboration at NATO level
NATO is working to fill gaps in its capabilities, supporting the collaboration of Poland, Germany, France, and Italy in the development of long-range weapons. The initiative is intended to counter nuclear threats from Russia and balance the strategic position it gained after breaking the INF treaty. These actions are a priority for modernising allied capabilities.
NATO's strategy also includes increasing logistical capabilities for rapid deployment of units and developing advanced communication technologies. An important aspect is replenishing ammunition supplies and further integrating the defence industries of member states to better respond to threats from Russia and other potential adversaries.
