The 2025 NATO summit saw Allies reaffirm their commitment to collective defence and enhance the long-term resilience of the Alliance through increased defence spending. In a contested geopolitical environment, carrying forward the legacy of transatlantic defence cooperation is an essential pillar of regional stability.

Businesses have long thrived from the security brought about by transatlantic defence cooperation, but they have also played a role in sustaining it. For decades, the European and American defence industries have been closely integrated, partnering through co-development, co-production and co-sustainment projects to meet the region’s defence needs. American companies remain committed to working with European companies and governments to continue meeting these needs.  

Maximising the potential of this transatlantic defence industrial cooperation requires stronger institutional coordination between the EU and NATO. NATO should remain the central actor guiding interoperability and standardisation among Allies. The EU, for its part, must continue to support these objectives with aligned policies and investments. Cooperating in this way will improve efficiency and ensure both institutions build on their respective strengths.