Military Leaders Warn European War on American Big Tech Comes With Real Security Risks
Summary
Military officials assert that Europe remains heavily reliant on U.S. technology, making it challenging for the continent to achieve independence in defense capabilities. This dependency raises concerns about Europe's strategic autonomy in an evolving global landscape.
Key Insights
Why is Europe's dependence on U.S. military technology considered a strategic vulnerability?
Europe's reliance on U.S. military technology creates what analysts call a 'lock-in effect,' where European nations become dependent on American contractors for critical systems they cannot independently produce or maintain. This dependency extends beyond hardware to include essential software, satellites, mid-air refueling aircraft, and advanced fighter jets like the F-35. The strategic concern is that this technological dependence gives the U.S. significant bargaining leverage in negotiations on other policy areas, such as trade. For example, a recent trade agreement between the U.S. and EU imposed a 15% baseline tariff on most European exports and a 50% levy on metals. Additionally, the U.S. military industrial base faces its own constraints, and current or future U.S. administrations might prioritize deliveries to Asia over Europe, potentially leaving European nations without critical defense supplies during a crisis.
What is the technology gap between Europe and the U.S., and why is it difficult for Europe to close?
The technology gap is substantial and widening. In 2024, the U.S. spent approximately $150 billion on defense research and development, while Europe invested only around €11 billion in 2023—meaning the U.S. spends roughly 10 times more on defense R&D than Europe. This disparity is compounded by the fact that Europe's defense industrial base remains fragmented and has been under-invested in for decades. The gap is particularly pronounced in high-tech domains such as hypersonic missiles, next-generation jets, AI-integrated systems, and intelligence services. Closing this gap is challenging because Europe's overall defense spending, while increasing, remains significantly lower than the U.S.: in 2024, EU defense spending reached €343 billion compared to approximately €864 billion for the U.S. Additionally, by increasing spending on U.S. military technology, Europe has reinforced U.S. dominance in certain technologies, providing American companies with additional demand and profits, which further widens the technological lead.