National governments in the Council of the EU have “broadly agreed” with the European Commission’s proposal for the creation of a €13-billion European Defence Fund for 2021-27.
The Council adopted its position on the EDF on 19 November. It said in a statement that it agreed with the proposed general objectives and structure of the fund, including the intention to invest in disruptive technologies.
However, it said it would like clarity on aspects including participant eligibility, ownership of results and coverage of indirect costs. It also said that special attention should be paid to small and medium-sized businesses.