ReArm Europe: EU Countries Submit €127 Billion in SAFE Fund Requests
Ursula von der Leyen's ReArm Europe plan has seen success with its joint procurement instrument. By November 30, 2025, EU countries have submitted 18 requests to the SAFE Fund, totaling at least 127 billion euros.
The SAFE Fund (Security Action for Europe), introduced as part of the ReArm Europe plan, is the first significant European military investment to fund joint defense procurement. It is open to both EU Member States and third countries. The Commission has not disclosed which governments have applied for access to the 150 billion Euro fund by the deadline.
The 27 member states are encouraged to spend independently while coordinating on joint procurement. This approach aims to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities while maintaining national sovereignty. The Commission is also considering using fresh funds from the next EU budget to militarize the eastern borders, a move seen as a response to Russian activity.
With inter-institutional negotiations for the next EU budget ongoing and expected to be complex, the SAFE Fund remains a key pillar of Ursula von der Leyen's ReArm Europe plan. It complements eased EU rules on defense borrowing, aiming to bolster Europe's defense industry and military capabilities.
