Commission ties transport funding to defence readiness

The European Commission has launched a call for proposals worth euro 1.1 billion to build and modernise transport infrastructure across the EU's trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T).

The call is the final funding round under the current 2021-2027 multiannual financial framework, the Commission said in a statement.

Military mobility remains a central element of Europe's defence and security architecture. The Commission argues that credible deterrence depends on the European Union's ability to move troops and equipment rapidly and efficiently across the bloc when required.

Part of the investment is intended to strengthen defence readiness by addressing military mobility bottlenecks and accelerating implementation of the EU's military mobility package.

The call places particular emphasis on rail, the decarbonisation of maritime transport and military mobility. It also supports the electrification of road freight transport and airport ground operations, the deployment of charging infrastructure in maritime and inland ports, and the digitalisation of road transport networks.

Last week, the Commission endorsed the Council's position on proposed rules designed to strengthen military mobility across the Union. The proposal is built around three priorities: faster and simpler cross-border movement authorisations, resilient and protected transport infrastructure adapted for dual-use requirements, and secure access to transport assets that support EU defence readiness.

The Commission welcomed the support expressed for the core objectives of its proposal and said it is awaiting the European Parliament's position before negotiations begin.

The institutions aim to enter trilogue discussions in the coming weeks with a view to reaching a timely agreement.

"Maintaining a high level of ambition remains essential," the Commission wrote.

"Decision-making for military movements must remain fast and simple, infrastructure must be protected and resilient against emerging threats, and the EU must have a robust framework enabling military mobility across the Union."