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EU Parl Watch

opinion parliamentary committee, 17 April 2026

On the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on establishing the European Competitiveness Fund ('ECF’), including the specific programme for defence research and innovation activities, repealing Regulations (EU) 2021/522, (EU) 2021/694, (EU) 2021/697, (EU) 2021/783, and amending Regulations (EU) 2021/696, (EU) 2023/588, (EU) [EDIP]

Document SEDE-AD-782450 · (COM(2025)0555 – C10-0165/2025 – 2025/0555(COD))

Committee on Security and Defence · Rapporteur: Riho Terras

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AMENDMENTS

The Committee on Security and Defence submits the following to the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy, as the committee responsible:

Amendment 1

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 8

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(8) In the EU, persistent disparities in competitiveness and innovation performance across regions continue to exist. After sustained efforts at both EU and national level to close the innovation gap, it is time to unlock the full potential of every region. By ensuring that less-developed regions are effectively connected to EU value chains, the Union as a whole will be better positioned to compete globally.(8) In the EU, persistent disparities in competitiveness and innovation performance across regions continue to exist. After sustained efforts at both EU and national level to close the innovation gap, it is time to unlock the full potential of every region. By ensuring that less-developed regions are effectively connected to Union value chains, the Union as a whole will be better positioned to compete globally. By guaranteeing the broadest possible participation of companies in the implementation of projects financed under the ECF and enabling the widest possible development of production and research and innovation value chains across all Member States, while avoiding the concentration of projects in a limited number of Member States, the Union will become stronger, more cohesive and more resilient, and better equipped to assert its strategic resilience and long-term global competitiveness.

Amendment 2

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 12 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(12a) The Union’s competitiveness and security are increasingly shaped by emerging and disruptive technologies, notably artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Targeted support for these technologies is essential to ensure technological leadership, protect critical infrastructure and enhance the Union’s long-term security and resilience.

Amendment 3

Proposal for a regulation

Read the rest (806 paragraphs)

Recital 15 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(15a) The European Commission Communication “Strong regions for a safe Europe” on the EU’s eastern regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine 1a underlines the need to assess how these regions can make the most effective use of the opportunities provided by the forthcoming European Competitiveness Fund. The objective is to ensure that innovation and industrial transformation are more strongly anchored in these territories, particularly in strategic sectors such as agriculture, the bioeconomy, the defence industry and resilient supply chains.
1ahttps://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/communication/eastern-border/communication-eastern-border-2026.pdf.

Amendment 4

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 17

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(17) The ECF should facilitate access to funding from Union programmes through user-centric, fast, simpler and harmonised procedures and improve coherence among Union instruments and with Member States investments. The ECF should put beneficiaries of Union funding, and notably industry, SMEs, start-ups and scale-ups, including those established under the upcoming 28th regime, at the centre of the design of Union funding instruments.(17) The ECF should facilitate access to funding from Union programmes through user-centric, fast, simpler and harmonised procedures, reduced reporting requirements, dedicated administrative and advisory support mechanisms, and improve coherence among Union instruments and with Member States investments. The ECF should put beneficiaries of Union funding, and notably industry, SMEs, start-ups and scale-ups, including those established under the upcoming 28th regime, at the centre of the design of Union funding instruments.

Amendment 5

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 18

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(18) The ECF should operate through four policy windows that mirror Union’s key policy priorities: Clean Transition and Industrial Decarbonisation; Digital Leadership; Health, Biotech, Agriculture and Bioeconomy;Resilience and Security, Defence industry and Space.(18) The ECF should operate through four policy windows that mirror Union’s key policy priorities: Clean Transition and Industrial Decarbonisation; Digital Leadership; Health, Biotech, Agriculture and Bioeconomy; Resilience and Security, Defence industry and Space. Considers that the larger share of the indicative envelope of the Resilience and Security, Defence industry and Space policy window should be clearly dedicated to defence industry actions.

Amendment 6

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 19

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(19) Infrastructure is an essential enabler for European competitiveness. Investments in infrastructure are a necessary condition for the proper functioning of the EU's single market, the green and digital transition and for increasing the Union’s resilience and security. For example, the trans-European transport network fosters sustainable forms of transport, promotes improved multimodal and interoperable digital and transport solutions, thereby contributing to a smooth functioning of the internal market. The trans-European networks for energy are key for a genuine Energy Union to enable the Union’s energy and climate objectives by connecting Union countries’ electricity and clean energy networks to ensure our energy independence and competitiveness. For this, the development of cross-border interconnectors, domestic transmission and distribution grids is essential. The ECF support will work in coherence and complementarity with the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). It is essential for Europe’s competitiveness to provide for synergies between the development of trans-European networks in energy and transport with strong cross-border impact supported by CEF, and investment support for the decarbonisation, modernisation and expansion of transport, energy and digital infrastructure under ECF.(19) Infrastructure is an essential enabler for European competitiveness. Investments in infrastructure are a necessary condition for the proper functioning of the EU's single market, the green and digital transition and for increasing the Union’s resilience and security. For example, the trans-European transport network fosters sustainable forms of transport, promotes improved multimodal and interoperable digital and transport solutions, thereby contributing to a smooth functioning of the internal market. The trans-European networks for energy are key for a genuine Energy Union to enable the Union’s energy and climate objectives by connecting Union countries’ electricity and clean energy networks to ensure our energy independence and competitiveness. For this, the development of cross-border interconnectors, domestic transmission and distribution grids is essential. The ECF support will work in coherence and complementarity with the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). It is essential for Europe’s competitiveness to provide for synergies between the development of trans-European networks in energy and transport with strong cross-border impact supported by CEF, and investment support for the decarbonisation, modernisation and expansion of transport, energy and digital infrastructure including port infrastructure, under the ECF. In addition, the protection and resilience of critical transport infrastructure, including strategic dual-use infrastructure, should not be neglected and therefore supported through the ECF.

Amendment 7

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 21 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(21a) Considering the heightened conventional and hybrid threats at the Union’s eastern borders, particular attention shall be given to Member States bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine and to regions directly affected by the consequences of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Strengthening defence industrial capacity, dual-use infrastructure, military mobility and civil preparedness in these regions contributes directly to the security of the entire Union.

Amendment 8

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 26

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(26) The Union can become a global leader in digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence, digital identity, semiconductors, robotics, quantum technologies, space technologies and others by harnessing the untapped potential of our researchers and industries. The ECF should promote the development and deployment of digital solutions and infrastructures and capacities across the Union for the benefit of the European society and economy.(26) The Union can become a global leader in digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence, digital identity, semiconductors, robotics, quantum technologies, space technologies and others by harnessing the untapped potential of our researchers and industries, including facilitating access where relevant to the space market for defence, SMEs, mid-caps and start-ups. The ECF should promote the development and deployment of digital solutions and infrastructures and capacities across the Union for the benefit of the European society and economy.

Amendment 9

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 29

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(29) Technological progress and innovation in every economic sector, and thus their productivity and competitiveness are essentially driven by the integration of sector-specific digital developments and use of digital solutions that should be supported across the Fund in the context of the activities developed in the different policy windows of the EDependency on high-risk suppliers in critical sectors can pose a strategic risk of foreign interference and jeopardise the Union’s security, resilience and sovereignty. The NIS Cooperation Group, in cooperation with the Commission and the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA), plays a key role in carrying out EU Coordinated security risk assessments of critical supply chains, taking into account technical and, where relevant, non-technical risk factors in accordance with Article 22 of Directive (EU) 2022/2555.14(29) Technological progress and innovation in every economic sector, and thus their productivity and competitiveness are essentially driven by the integration of sector-specific digital developments and use of digital solutions that should be supported across the ECF in the context of the activities developed in the different policy windows of the EDependency on high-risk suppliers in critical sectors can pose a strategic risk of foreign interference and jeopardise the Union’s security, resilience and sovereignty. In this context, the European Cybersecurity Competence Centre (ECCC), in cooperation with the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) and the NIS Cooperation Group, plays a key role in strengthening a robust European cybersecurity community. ENISA, plays a key role in carrying out EU coordinated security risk assessments of critical supply chains, taking into account technical and, where relevant, non-technical risk factors. The ECCC contributes to research, innovation, capacity building, and the development of cybersecurity solutions across sectors, complementing the activities of ENISA and the NIS Cooperation Group, in accordance with Article 22 of Directive (EU) 2022/255514.
14 Directive (EU) 2022/2555 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union, amending Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 and Directive (EU) 2018/1972, and repealing Directive (EU) 2016/1148; Text with EEA relevance, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2022/2555/2022-12-27.14 Directive (EU) 2022/2555 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 December 2022 on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union, amending Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 and Directive (EU) 2018/1972, and repealing Directive (EU) 2016/1148, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2022/2555.

Amendment 10

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 29 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(29a) Cybersecurity should be regarded as its own unique domain as well as cross-cutting issue in other domains.

Amendment 11

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 29 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(29b) Ensuring the high-level of cybersecurity in the Union, in order to counter risks stemming from dependencies and from unauthorised access by third country authorities, is fundamental to ensure its resilience and competitiveness. The ECF should therefore both promote cybersecurity-by-design by incorporating cybersecurity measures in all relevant activities as well as support the competitiveness of the Union cybersecurity ecosystem, notably SMEs, startups and scaleups.

Amendment 12

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 29 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(29c) The resilience and the security of European infrastructures are essential for our economy. Financing the cybersecurity of European infrastructures should therefore be ensured, including in European projects such as AI factories and high-performance computing (HPC).
Recognising the need for a coordination mechanism among Member States for the development of cybersecurity capacities, as well as the associated governance and budgetary provisions, the European Cybersecurity Competence Centre (ECCC) and National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCC) network serving as enablers of collegial decision-making forum and implementation capability for cybersecurity investments within the EU. The ECF builds on the efforts made to establish a European and national cybersecurity ecosystem, in which NCCs are steadily becoming a trusted partner.

Amendment 13

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 29 d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(29d) Business support offered in the cybersecurity domain, like the provision of financial support to third parties, should leverage existing capabilities such as the NCC network in order to conduct cross-cutting activities focused on strengthening the competitiveness of SMEs.

Amendment 14

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 30

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(30) Europe must protect its security interest against suppliers which could represent a persistent security risk due to the potential interference from third countries as well as their security, notably cybersecurity. It is therefore necessary to reduce the risk of persisting dependency on high-risk suppliers in the internal market, including in the ICT supply chain, as they could have potentially serious negative impacts on security for users and companies across the Union and the Union’s critical infrastructure in terms of the integrity of data and services as well as the availability of service. This restriction should be based on a proportionate risk assessment and associated mitigation measures as defined in the Union policies and laws.(30) Europe must protect its security interests against suppliers which could represent a persistent security risk due to the potential interference from third countries as well as their security, notably cybersecurity. Particular attention should be given to suppliers operating under legal and governance frameworks that may require cooperation with state authorities, including obligations to provide access to data or infrastructure, which can create risks of foreign interference, espionage or disruption of services. In this context, dependencies linked to certain third countries, including China, have raised concerns regarding the security of critical digital and communication infrastructures, supply chain integrity, and the resilience of essential services, especially where high market concentration or limited alternatives exist. It is therefore necessary to reduce the risk of persisting dependency on high-risk suppliers in the internal market, including in the ICT supply chain, as they could have potentially serious negative impacts on security for users and companies across the Union and the Union’s critical infrastructure in terms of confidentiality, the integrity of data and services as well as the availability of service. This includes strengthening supply chain diversification, promoting trusted vendors, and ensuring that strategic components and services critical to Union security can be sourced or developed within Europe or through reliable partners. This restriction should be based on a proportionate risk assessment and associated mitigation measures as defined in Union policies and laws.

Amendment 15

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 35

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(35) Fostering the resilience of the European industry is essential for the Union to remain competitive even in times of crisis and is essential for Union’s security. To ensure its resilience, the ECF should support actions aimed to reduce dependencies and diversify supply in strategic sectors such as the raw materials sector, thus reinforcing the Union capacities for a secure supply of sustainable critical raw materials along the whole value chain in line with the objectives of the Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council (Critical Raw Materials Act)15 and the chemicals industry, underpinning almost all industry sectors. Pursuing an ambitious and mutually beneficial trade agenda is essential for the Union’s ability to diversify its supply chains and effectively reduce dependencies.(35) Fostering the resilience of the European industry as well as of Europe's critical infrastructure is essential for the Union to remain competitive even in times of crisis and is essential for Union’s security. To ensure its resilience, the ECF should support actions aimed to reduce dependencies and diversify supply in strategic sectors such as the raw materials sector, thus reinforcing the Union capacities for a secure supply of sustainable critical raw materials along the whole value chain in line with the objectives of the Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council (Critical Raw Materials Act)15 and the chemicals industry, underpinning almost all industry sectors. Pursuing an ambitious and mutually beneficial trade agenda is essential for the Union’s ability to diversify its supply chains and effectively reduce dependencies.
15 Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1724 and (EU) 2019/1020 (Text with EEA relevance), OJ L, 2024/1252, 3.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1252/oj15 Regulation (EU) 2024/1252 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1724 and (EU) 2019/1020, OJ L, 2024/1252, 3.5.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1252/oj.

Amendment 16

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 36

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(36) In addition, the geopolitical context, in particular Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, has exposed the Union and its Member States to a high risk of materialisation of conventional military threats, in particularly to the ones bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Considering this, together with the threats on the rest of the EU borders,increased investment in defence is deemed a priority, including for projects such as the Baltic Defence Line and Eastern Border Shield. Defence industry and space are key ecosystems to ensure the European Union’s resilience and strategic autonomy and increase the Union’s readiness and preparedness in line with the White Paper for European Defence – Readiness 2030.16 It also supports the Union’s focus on sustainability, competitiveness, resilience and security and the Union position in the world. A strong European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB) is an indispensable prerequisite of defence readiness and credible deterrence. It is also essential for the protection of European citizens, ensuring the Union’s ability to respond to emerging security challenges, to support Ukraine, and to uphold Europe's position as a global actor. The EDTIB is recognised as a strategic asset, contributing to the Union’s economic resilience and security, innovation, technological leadership and strategic autonomy. Across the Union and its Member States, the defence sector is evolving rapidly, with cutting-edge technologies and new actors playing an increasingly important role. Innovation cycles are also accelerating, with growing emphasis on rapid prototyping, testing and validation, including in real operational environments. To improve military mobility, investments in new civilian-military assets, including mobile assets and dual use infrastructure need to be developed. Coordinated and sustained support to the EDTIB is therefore key to reinforce the collective security of the Union and its Member States, the development of Union-wide defence projects of common interest, and Europe’s defence readiness. In relation to this, actions supporting the reinforcement of the Ukrainian defence technological and industrial base should be also financed, as its industry will be essential to support European increased defence needs. To this end, the ECF shall be implemented taking into account the objectives of the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence and shall be consistent with the defence capability priorities commonly agreed by Member States within the framework of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP).(36) In addition, the geopolitical context, in particular Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine, has exposed the Union and its Member States to a high risk of materialisation of conventional military threats, in particularly to the ones bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Considering this, together with the threats on the rest of the EU borders, increased investment in defence is thereby a priority, including for projects such as the Baltic Defence Line and Eastern Border Shield and Black Sea Maritime Security Hub. Defence, security, industry and space are key ecosystems to ensure the European Union’s resilience, preparedness and strategic autonomy and increase the Union’s defence readiness and preparedness in line with the White Paper for European Defence – Readiness 2030.16 It also supports the Union’s focus on sustainability, competitiveness, resilience, and security and the Union position in the world. A strong European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB) is an indispensable prerequisite of defence readiness and credible deterrence. It is also essential for the protection of European citizens, ensuring the Union’s ability to respond to emerging security challenges, to support Ukraine, and to uphold Europe's position as a global actor. The EDTIB is recognised as a strategic asset, contributing to the Union’s economic resilience and security, innovation, technological leadership and strategic autonomy. In this context, particular attention should be paid to the specific security exposure of Member States bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine and to ensuring a geographically balanced development of the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base. Strengthening the security and resilience of defence supply chains, in particular by reducing critical dependencies on third countries for strategic components, raw materials and key technologies, is essential for ensuring the Union’s long-term preparedness, industrial capacity and competitiveness. The implementation of the ECF should, in line with its objectives, contribute to reinforcing the robustness, diversification and capacity expansion of defence related value chains within the Union. Across the Union and its Member States, the defence sector is evolving rapidly, with cutting-edge technologies and new actors playing an increasingly important role. Innovation cycles are also accelerating, with growing emphasis on rapid prototyping, testing and validation, including in real operational environments. Actions under defence research and innovation shall place particular emphasis on cybersecurity, secure communications, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and other critical technologies essential for the Union's security, resilience and operational readiness. To improve military mobility, investments in new civilian-military assets, including mobile assets and dual use infrastructure need to be developed, including where appropriate and in coherence with relevant Union programmes, the adaptation of transport, energy and digital infrastructure to enhance interoperability, resilience and rapid cross-border deployment capacity. Coordinated and sustained support to the EDTIB, including through the development of European Flagship defence projects of common interest, is therefore key to reinforce the collective security of the Union and its Member States and Europe’s defence readiness. In relation to this, actions supporting the reinforcement of the Ukrainian defence technological and industrial base should be also financed, as its industry will be essential to support European increased defence needs. To ensure strategic coherence and predictability, the implementation of the ECF should be guided by capability priorities, aligned with capability priorities developed within the framework of the European Defence Agency and with capability gaps identified by Member States. The Commission should provide annual reporting on the distribution of Union support across defence capability categories in order to enhance transparency and democratic scrutiny. To this end, the ECF shall be implemented taking into account the objectives of the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence as well as the Council Conclusions on European defence of 6 of March 2025 outlining priority areas of action in the field of defence, and shall be consistent with the defence capability priorities commonly agreed by Member States within the framework of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), in particular within the context of the Capability Development Plan (CDP), and with the collaborative opportunities identified in the Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD). Furthermore, the ECF should duly take into account Member States’ cooperation within the framework of the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), the European Defence Agency’s (EDA) initiatives and projects, including projects stemming from the fora implementing the nine Priority capability areas defined by the European Council, as well as the relevant activities carried out by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), including the NATO Defence Planning Process and in line with the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA). The increasing importance of the European Union in defence matters should be mirrored by an adequate level of democratic scrutiny and oversight to ensure responsible allocation of funds and support from Union citizens. The Commission should therefore provide annual reporting on the distribution of Union support across defence capability categories in order to enhance transparency and democratic scrutiny.
16 Commission, the High Representative have present, White Paper for European Defence – Readiness 2030, 19.03.2025.16 Commission, the High Representative have present, White Paper for European Defence – Readiness 2030, 19.03.2025.

Amendment 17

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 37

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(37) Union Space technology, data and services have become indispensable in the daily lives of Europeans and play an essential role in preserving strategic interests. Space contributes to all sectors of the economy from agriculture to banking. It is a critical enabler for security and defence, and for the well-functioning and competitiveness of the economy for example by providing accurate position-services for a broad spectrum of sectors and users, ranging from aviation to maritime, and thereby playing a key role for Europe and European citizens’ independence and sovereignty. Space is crucial for the achievement of EU's priorities and its strategic goals, including for economic prosperity and economic security, decarbonisation, green and digital transition. Space contributes to the economic security of the Union and its Member States. It also drives scientific research and technological innovation, with spill-over effects in a wide range of sectors. Finally, space offers a platform for international cooperation and space diplomacy to underpin the Union’s position as a reliable partner on the global scene.(37) Union Space technology, data and services have become indispensable in the daily lives of Europeans and play an essential role in preserving strategic interests. Space contributes to all sectors of the economy from agriculture to banking. It is a critical enabler for security and defence, and for the well-functioning and competitiveness of the economy for example by providing accurate position-services for a broad spectrum of sectors and users, ranging from aviation to maritime, and thereby playing a key role for Europe and European citizens’ independence and sovereignty. Space is crucial for the achievement of EU's priorities and its strategic goals, including for economic prosperity and economic security, decarbonisation, green and digital transition. Space contributes to the economic security of the Union and its Member States. It also drives scientific research and technological innovation, with spill-over effects and synergies in a wide range of sectors such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Finally, space offers a platform for international cooperation and space diplomacy to underpin the Union’s position as a reliable partner on the global scene.

Amendment 18

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 39

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(39) The ECF should also support the policy goals of a safer, more secure Europe that is better prepared against security threats, in particular by enhancing European industry competitiveness and strategic autonomy, including maritime and customs security, critical energy and transport infrastructure and civil preparedness. To address increasing security and hybrid threats like terrorism, organised crime, cybercrime, climate disasters and attacks on critical infrastructure, the ECF should support Europe’s efforts to increase its threat awareness, build resilience and boost security investments, and promote preparedness by design across relevant sectors.(39) The ECF should also support the policy goals of a safer, more secure Europe that is better prepared against security threats, in particular by enhancing European industry competitiveness and strategic autonomy, including maritime and customs security, critical energy and transport infrastructure, including strategic dual-use infrastructure such as ports and civil preparedness. To address increasing security and hybrid threats such as terrorism, organised crime, cybercrime, energy grid sabotage, Chemical, Biological, Radiological or Nuclear (CBRN) incidents, drone incursions, disinformation campaigns, climate disasters and attacks on critical infrastructure, the ECF should support Europe’s efforts to increase its threat awareness, build resilience and boost security investments, including works related to the protection, monitoring and repair of critical infrastructure, and promote preparedness by design across relevant sectors. Works in this context include the purchase, supply, and deployment of components, systems and services including software, development, upgrading, construction and installation activities relating to a project, the acceptance of installations and the launch of a project. The ECF should furthermore promote enhanced cooperation between civilian and military actors in the field of resilience, including through support for dual-use infrastructure and capabilities such as transport networks and airlift capacities that can serve both civilian emergency response and defence needs. In order to strengthen the Union’s preparedness, actions supported under the ECF should contribute to a whole-of-society approach to resilience, involving public authorities, industry, civil society and citizens, and fostering coordination across all levels of governance.

Amendment 19

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 45 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(45a) To enhance resilience of the Union it is highly important that technologies developed in the defence sector should also be compatible with NATO criteria, and this Regulation should ensure this through specific requirements and joint research and development teams.

Amendment 20

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 49

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(49) The ECF should support a diverse set of policies contributing to competitiveness, while providing a harmonised baseline set of eligibility criteria to provide policy steer and ensuring a sufficient level of protection of economic and security interests by focusing Union support on recipients in the Member States, including Overseas Countries and Territories. Where necessary, the ECF should establish specific eligibility conditions for strategic sectors and technologies, including underlying value chains, critical Union infrastructures and specific capabilities.(49) The ECF should support a diverse set of policies contributing to competitiveness, while providing a harmonised baseline set of eligibility criteria to provide policy steer and ensuring a sufficient level of protection of economic and security interests by focusing Union support on recipients in the Member States, including Overseas Countries and Territories. The ECF should promote pan-EU collaboration and inclusive participation of Member States in strategic industrial value chains. Where necessary, the ECF should establish specific eligibility conditions for strategic sectors and technologies, including underlying value chains, critical Union infrastructures and specific capabilities.

Amendment 21

Proposal for a regulation

Recital 53

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(53) To deliver on the objective of translating research results into markets and strengthening Union’s industrial presence in strategic technologies and sectors, Regulation (EU) [XXX] [Horizon Europe framework programme for Research and Innovation] will be tightly linked with ECF and will support research and innovation activities as laid down by the policy windows of ECF. The ECF work programmes will include collaborative research and innovation actions, in a specific dedicated part. This may also include contributions to European Partnerships established under the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, where necessary to achieve the ECF objectives. The ECF work programmes should also set out policy priorities that will steer EIC challenges.(53) To deliver on the objective of translating research results into markets and strengthening Union’s industrial presence in strategic technologies and sectors, Regulation (EU) [XXX] [Horizon Europe framework programme for Research and Innovation] will be tightly linked with ECF and will support research and innovation activities as laid down by the policy windows of ECF. The ECF work programmes will include collaborative research and innovation actions, in a specific dedicated part. This may also include contributions to European Partnerships established under the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, where necessary to achieve the ECF objectives. The ECF work programmes should also set out policy priorities that will steer EIC challenges. In order to achieve these overarching goals, it is paramount to ensure a seamless investment journey from research to deployment and industrialisation, which requires that actions and results with possible defence applications generated under Regulation (EU) [XXX] [Horizon Europe Framework programme for Research and Innovation] can be swiftly taken up by Union instruments supporting scale-up, deployment and industrialisation, in particular under this Regulation. Unnecessary duplication of evaluations and reviews should be avoided when taking up actions and results and relevant prior assessments may be reused, where compatible with the rules set out in the work programmes of this Regulation in order to reduce administrative burden and accelerate support.

Amendment 22

Proposal for a regulation

Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(5) ‘Executive management structure’ means the body of a legal entity appointed in accordance with national law, and which, where applicable, reports to the chief executive officer or any other person having comparable decisional power, and which is empowered to establish the legal entity’s strategy, objectives and overall direction, and oversees and monitors management decision-making;(5) ‘Executive management structure’ means a body of a legal entity, appointed in accordance with national law, and which, where applicable, reporting to the chief executive officer or any other person having comparable decisional power, and which is empowered to establish the legal entity’s strategy, objectives and overall direction, and which oversees and monitors the legal entity's management decision-making;

Amendment 23

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) reducing or preventing the Union’s strategic dependencies, and reinforcing the Union’s resilience, and economic security, including through diversifying sources and markets, support to ramp up of European production of strategic technologies and creating, strengthening and protecting critical Union value chains and infrastructure;(b) reducing or preventing the Union’s strategic dependencies, and reinforcing the Union’s resilience, and economic security, including through diversifying sources and markets, support to ramp up of European production of strategic technologies and creating, strengthening and protecting critical Union value chains and infrastructure, including against increasing emerging threats of both a hybrid and a kinetic nature and instrumentalisation of dependencies;

Amendment 24

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(da) strengthening the EDTIB by prioritising projects that contribute to technological sovereignty, resilience and security of supply within the Union;

Amendment 25

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point f

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) developing Union cross-border and critical infrastructure key to the Union’s competitiveness, and strategic independence in particular energy and transport, digital and security, defence and space infrastructure as well as social infrastructure and related data and services;(f) developing Union cross-border and critical infrastructure key to the Union’s competitiveness, and strategic independence, in particular of energy and transport, digital and security, defence and space infrastructure as well as social infrastructure and related data and services;

Amendment 26

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point f a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(fa) enhancing the protection and monitoring of Union's cross-border and critical infrastructure, and capability development essential for the resilience, protection and monitoring of strategic infrastructure, such as energy, transport, water and underwater infrastructure;

Amendment 27

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point i

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(i) ensuring the integration of the Single Market, including by supporting initiatives at any stage of the investment journey with positive spill-over effects for the Single Market and resilience of its value chains;(i) ensuring the integration of the Single Market, including by supporting initiatives at any stage of the investment journey with positive spill-over effects for the Single Market and resilience of its value chains, reducing the fragmentation and risk of unnecessary duplication of European defence products and technologies, and taking into account the specific needs of Member States in the case of materialisation of conventional military threats;

Amendment 28

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d – point 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(1) For support to resilience of supply chains, the specific objectives of reinforcing Europe’s resilience by strengthening the Union capacity in exploration, extraction, processing and recycling of raw materials and diversifying supply sources and markets, and improving the timely availability of such products, including through the reduction of their delivery lead time, reservation of manufacturing slots or stockpiling of products, intermediate products or raw materials.(1) For support to resilience of supply chains, the specific objectives of reinforcing Europe’s resilience by strengthening the Union capacity in exploration, extraction, processing and recycling of raw materials and diversifying supply sources and markets, and improving the timely availability of and access to such products, including through the reduction of their delivery lead time, reservation of manufacturing slots or stockpiling of products, intermediate products or raw materials.

Amendment 29

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d – point 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(2) For support to EU defence industry. the specific objectives of promoting defence industrial readiness of the Union and its Member States through the strengthening of the competitiveness, responsiveness and ability of the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB), including support to start-ups, scale-ups and SMEs, fostering an innovative EU defence ecosystem; Collaborative research and development of defence products and technologies, including disruptive technologies for defence; Cooperation throughout the life-cycle of defence equipment, in particular in defence procurement and for the development of European defence projects of common interest; Adjustment of industry to structural changes.(2) For support to EU defence industry, the specific objectives of enhancing the technological leadership, innovation, readiness, long-term competitiveness, resilience, integration and preparedness of the European defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB), ensuring the timely availability and supply of defence products, building collective defence capabilities for common security and defence policy (CSDP) missions and operations, working towards strategic autonomy and promoting defence industrial readiness of the Union and its Member States with particular attention to Member States exposed to the risk of materialisation of conventional military and hybrid threats, through the strengthening of the competitiveness, responsiveness and ability of the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB), by initiating and accelerating the adjustment of the industry to structural changes imposed by the evolving security environment, including support to start-ups, scale-ups and SMEs, fostering an innovative EU defence ecosystem; Collaborative research and development of defence products and technologies, including disruptive technologies for defence; Cooperation throughout the life-cycle of defence equipment, in particular in defence procurement and for the development of European defence projects of common interest; Adjustment of industry to structural changes. Priority shall be given to projects contributing to common procurement, interoperability, and interchangeability of equipment.

Amendment 30

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d – point 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(3) For the implementation of EU space systems and space policy, the specific objectives of developing, maintaining and operating space systems, providing cutting-edge space-based information, data and services supporting Union policies, notably in the area of security, defence, sustainable growth, environment protection and climate resilience, global engagement and strategic independence; Maximising the socio-economic benefits of space-based activities, in particular by fostering the development of an innovative and competitive Union space economy and supporting the development of a genuine Single Market for space activities, including collaborative research and innovation for space products and technologies and support to SMEs; Enhancing the safety, security and sustainability of all outer space activities; Promoting the role of the Union as a global actor in the space sector.(3) For the implementation of EU space systems and space policy, the specific objectives of developing, maintaining and operating space systems, providing cutting-edge space-based information, data and services supporting Union policies, notably in the area of security, defence, defence readiness, sustainable growth, environment protection and climate resilience, global engagement and strategic independence; Maximising the socio-economic benefits of space-based activities, in particular by fostering the development of an innovative and competitive Union space economy and supporting the development of a genuine Single Market for space activities, including collaborative research and innovation for space products and technologies and support to SMEs; Enhancing the safety, security and sustainability of all outer space activities; Promoting the role of the Union as a global actor in the space sector.

Amendment 31

Proposal for a regulation

Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point d – point 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(4) For support to civil industrial security, the specific objectives of strengthening the competitiveness and responsiveness of the European civil security industry, in the application areas of security, resilience of critical and dual-use infrastructures, technologies including critical energy infrastructure, and solutions for the control of goods and persons at borders, the protection of borders, maritime security, customs security and civil preparedness against security threats, as well as reinforcing the capabilities of the relevant end-users in the civil security sector.(4) For support to civil industrial security, the specific objectives of strengthening the competitiveness and responsiveness of the European civil security industry, in the application areas of security, resilience of critical and dual-use infrastructures, including their physical protection and resilience against physical and hybrid threats, and basic protection measures for strategic dual-use infrastructure (SDI), technologies including critical energy infrastructure, and solutions for the control of goods and persons at borders, the protection of borders, maritime security, including capabilities for the protection and monitoring of critical undersea infrastructure, customs security and civil preparedness against security threats, preventing and responding to serious crime, including terrorism and sabotage, as well as reinforcing the capabilities of the relevant end-users in the civil security sector.

Amendment 32

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 – first subparagraph

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
The indicative breakdown is subject to the activation of Article 6(1). In case of activation of Article 6(1), the proportions of the allocations shall be adjusted.

Amendment 33

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) EUR 125 204 000 000 for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (d);(e) EUR 125 204 000 000 for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (d), of which at least:

Amendment 34

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point e – point i (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(i) [XXX] for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (d), sub-point (1),

Amendment 35

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point e – point ii (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ii) [XXX] for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (d), sub-point (2),

Amendment 36

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point e – point iii (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(iii) [XXX] for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (d), sub-point (3), and

Amendment 37

Proposal for a regulation

Article 4 – paragraph 2 – point e – point iv (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(iv) [XXX] for the specific objectives referred to in Article 3(2), point (d), sub-point (4).

Amendment 38

Proposal for a regulation

Article 6 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. The ECF shall be implemented in synergy with other Union programmes. An action that has received a Union contribution from another programme may also receive another contribution under the ECF. The rules of the relevant Union programme shall apply to the corresponding contribution or a single set of rules may be applied to all contributions and a single legal commitment may be concluded. If the Union contribution is based on eligible costs, the cumulative support from the Union budget shall not exceed the total eligible costs of the action and may be calculated on a pro-rata basis in accordance with the documents setting out the conditions for support.1. The ECF shall be implemented in synergy with other Union programmes. An action that has received a Union contribution from a programme outside the ECF may also receive another contribution under the ECF, while avoiding double funding of the same costs. In the event of an aggression against a Member State or following the triggering of the mutual defence clause of Article 42(7) of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) by a Member State, ECF funding shall be re-directed, by means of an implementing act, to support the EDTIB to urgent actions necessary to ensure the Union's Security of Supply and timely availability and supply of defence products for the protection of European citizens, ensuring the Union's ability to respond to emerging security challenges including support to Ukraine. This mechanism shall allow the Commission to adapt the work programmes and award funding by means of an immediately applicable implementing act, in accordance with Article 8 of Regulation (EU) No 182/2011. The rules of the relevant Union programme shall apply to the corresponding contribution or a single set of rules may be applied to all contributions and a single legal commitment may be concluded. If the Union contribution is based on eligible costs, the cumulative support from the Union budget shall not exceed the total eligible costs of the action and may be calculated on a pro-rata basis in accordance with the documents setting out the conditions for support.

Amendment 39

Proposal for a regulation

Article 41 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. A Space and Defence Advisory Board is set up and may advice the Commission on the coordination and complementarity between space and defence activities as laid down Article 3(2)(d), sub-points (1) and (2) and related financial tools to increase efficiency of investments and effectiveness of results. The members of the Advisory Board referred to in paragraph 1 shall be appointed by Member States1. A Space and Defence Advisory Board, composed of representatives of the Member States and the EDA, is set up in order to foster cooperation and advise the Commission on the coordination and complementarity between space and defence activities as laid down Article 3(2)(d), sub-points (1) and (2) and related financial tools to increase efficiency of investments and effectiveness of results. As space is a strategic enabler for defence, special attention should be paid to identify space projects which can complement defence needs, including for monitoring of military and hybrid threats, for critical infrastructure surveillance, and support for CSDP missions. The members of the Advisory Board shall be appointed by Member States. Relevant international organisations such as the European Space Agency may be granted observer status.

Amendment 40

Proposal for a regulation

Article 42 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Support to Resilience policy shall reinforce the strategic autonomy, economic security and the resilience of the Union industry by strengthening the different stages of the raw materials value chain, including through diversification of the supply of critical raw materials from third countries.1. Support to Resilience policy shall reinforce the strategic autonomy, economic security and the resilience of the Union industry by strengthening the different stages of the raw materials value chain, including in relation to defence industry supply chains and through diversification of the supply of critical raw materials from third countries.

Amendment 41

Proposal for a regulation

Article 42 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ba) support for the purpose of implementing the measures of the Union's Security of Supply regime, created under Regulation (EU) 2025/2643;

Amendment 42

Proposal for a regulation

Article 44 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Support for defence industry policy shall be implemented in particular through the following components:1. Support for defence industry policy shall be implemented in particular through the following activities:

Amendment 43

Proposal for a regulation

Article 44 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ea) Support to new entrants, innovative start-ups, SMEs and scale-ups in the EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS), as referred to in Article 49a of this Regulation.

Amendment 44

Proposal for a regulation

Article 44 – paragraph 1 – point e b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(eb) Capacity-building, training reskilling or upskilling of personnel in relation to the activities referred to in points (a) to (ea).

Amendment 45

Proposal for a regulation

Article 44 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Support to new entrants, innovative start-ups, SMEs and scale-ups will be tailormade across the activities listed in the first paragraph to ensure speed, flexibility and agility. It will take the form of a dedicated programme EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS), that will include innovative and scalable activities, including in support to disruptive technologies and to single entities, such as: matchmaking events and business coaching for innovators, agile funding mechanisms, challenges, hackathons, support to innovative procurement, iterative upgrade procurement models for rapidly evolving systems and any other actions for faster innovation cycles and technology integration, validation and experimentation.deleted

Amendment 46

Proposal for a regulation

Article 44 – paragraph 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3a. The activities under this section shall be pursued with an emphasis on consistency with the objectives of the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence, with the benchmarks set out in the European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS) with the Roadmap for European Defence Readiness 2030 and with the Capability Development Plan (CDP) and the collaborative opportunities identified in the context of the Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD). The ECF shall duly take into account the Member States' cooperation within the framework of the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), the European Defence Agency (EDA) initiatives and projects, recommendations by the EU Military Committee (EUMC), as well as relevant activities carried out by the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), such as the NATO Defence Planning Process.

Amendment 47

Proposal for a regulation

Article 44 – paragraph 3 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3b. In addition to the rules set out in Article 9(4), the following actions shall not be eligible for funding under this policy window:
(a) actions related to defence products that are prohibited by applicable international law;
(b) actions which include sourcing from non-associated third countries that contravene the security and defence interests of the Union or its Member States including respect for the principle of good neighbourly relations.

Amendment 48

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. European Defence Projects of Common Interest shall consist of collaborative industrial projects aimed at reinforcing the competitiveness of the EDTIB throughout the Union while contributing to the development of Member States’ military capabilities and systems of common interest and/or use, including those securing access to all operational domains, namely land, maritime, air, space and cyber.1. European Defence Projects of Common Interest (EDPCIs) shall consist of collaborative industrial projects aimed at reinforcing the competitiveness of the EDTIB throughout the Union while contributing to the development of Member States’ military capabilities, critical for the security and defence interests of the Union and including those securing access to all operational domains, namely land, maritime, air, space and cyber.

Amendment 49

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 2 – introductory wording

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The Commission may identify European Defence Projects of Common Interest in an implementing act, adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 83, paragraph 3.2. EDPCIs shall meet all the following criteria:

Amendment 50

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 2 – point a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) they significantly strengthen the competitiveness, efficiency and innovation capacity of the EDTIB, in particular by:
(i) contributing to the establishment of new or the broadening of existing cross-border cooperation, including with SMEs and mid-caps;
(ii) creating positive spill-over effects in the internal market;
(iii) significantly contributing to market integration and reduction of market fragmentation;
(iv) improving the interoperability and interchangeability of defence products; and
(v) aiming to reduce strategic dependencies, including by means of supply diversification and scaling up capacities;

Amendment 51

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 2 – point b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) they contribute to the development of Member States’ military capabilities critical for the security and defence interests of the Union and are consistent with the objectives of the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence, with the defence capability priorities commonly agreed by Member States within the framework of the CFSP, in particular in the context of the CDP, and with the collaborative opportunities identified in the context of CARD;

Amendment 52

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 2 – point c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) they take into account Member States’ cooperation in the framework of PESCO and EDA initiatives and projects;

Amendment 53

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 2 – point d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) they take into account the relevant activities carried out by NATO, such as the NATO Defence Planning Process, where such activities serve the security and defence interests of the Union;

Amendment 54

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 2 – point e (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) they involve at least four Member States, and all Member States and associated countries, are given a genuine opportunity to participate in the EDPCI;

Amendment 55

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 2 – point f (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) their benefits extend to a wider part of the Union;

Amendment 56

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 2 – point g (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(g) they are particularly significant in size or scope or aim to mitigate a considerable level of technological or financial risk, or both;

Amendment 57

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 2 – point h (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(h) their potential overall benefits outweigh their costs, including in the longer term.

Amendment 58

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 3 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. The Commission shall, when identifying projects referred to in paragraph 2:3. The Council, acting upon a proposal from the Commission, may adopt implementing acts identifying EDPCIs.

Amendment 59

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 3 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) duly consider the guidance provided in the context of the Defence Industrial Advisory Board, as referred to in Article 56, in particular the contribution of the project to the capability priorities identified in the context of the CFSP, notably of the Capability Development Plan, and the objectives of the Strategic Compass for security and defence;deleted

Amendment 60

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 3 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) identify overall financing needs and potential impacts for the Union budget;deleted

Amendment 61

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 3 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) take into account any views of Member States.deleted

Amendment 62

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 4 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4. European Defence Projects of Common Interest shall meet the following general criteria:4. Member States shall coordinate to prepare project proposals for possible EDPCIs in an inclusive way, with the support of the EDA where necessary.

Amendment 63

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 4 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) the project involves at least four Member States;deleted

Amendment 64

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 4 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) the project aims at developing capabilities, including those securing access to strategic domains and contested spaces, strategic enablers, and, as appropriate, systems acting as European defence infrastructure of common interest and use;deleted

Amendment 65

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 4 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) the benefits of the project extend to a wider part of the Union and ensures a broad geographical participationdeleted

Amendment 66

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 4 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) the projects shall be particularly significant in size or scope and aim at mitigating a considerable level of technological or financial risk;deleted

Amendment 67

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 4 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) the potential overall benefits of the project outweigh its costs, including in the longer term.deleted

Amendment 68

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5. A European Defence Project of Common Interest shall involve at least four Member States. The European Commission shall be able, where relevant, to participate in the project.5. Before proposing the implementing acts referred to in paragraph 3, the Commission shall verify the compliance of the project proposals referred to in paragraph 4 with all the criteria listed in paragraph 2 and:

Amendment 69

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 5 – point a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) consult Member States in an inclusive manner and take into account their views and project proposals for possible EDPCIs;

Amendment 70

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 5 – point b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) invite the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (the ‘High Representative’) and the EDA to provide their expertise with a view to ensuring consistency with the priorities and objectives referred to in paragraph 2, points (b), (c) and (d), in particular the defence capability priorities commonly agreed by Member States within the framework of CFSP, in particular as jointly expressed in the context of the CDP, to complement the information provided by Member States regarding project proposals; and

Amendment 71

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 5 – point c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) verify that all Member States and associated countries, were informed of the emergence of a project and were given the opportunity to participate.

Amendment 72

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6. A European Defence Project of Common Interest shall be considered to contribute to the defence capabilities critical for the security and defence interests of the Union and its Member States and therefore to be in the public interest. They may be established in the framework of Structures for European Armament Programmes established in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX] [European Defence Industry Programme].6. In the implementing acts referred to in paragraph 3, the Council shall:

Amendment 73

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 6 – point a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) set out the objectives and characteristics of the EDPCI in relation to the criteria set out in paragraph 2;

Amendment 74

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 6 – point b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) establish the list of countries participating in the EDPCI at the date of the adoption of the implementing act; and

Amendment 75

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 6 – point c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) estimate the overall financial size of the EDPCI.

Amendment 76

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 7

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
7. Member States may, without prejudice to Articles 107 and 108 TFEU, apply support schemes and provide for administrative support to European Defence Projects of Common Interest.7. The Council shall adopt the implementing acts referred to in paragraph 3 acting by qualified majority. The Council may amend the project proposals referred to in paragraph 4 acting by qualified majority.

Amendment 77

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 8

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
8. The deployment of European Defence Projects of Common Interest may be considered an imperative reason of overriding public interest within the meaning of Article 6(4) and Article 16(1), point (c), of Directive 92/43/EEC and of overriding public interest within the meaning of Article 4(7) of Directive 2000/60. Therefore, the planning, construction and operation of related production facilities may be considered of overriding public interest, provided that the remaining other conditions set out in these provisions are fulfilled.8. The deployment of an EDPCI which is eligible for Union funding as referred to in Article 44(1), point (a), shall consist only of one or more activities related to:

Amendment 78

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 8 – point a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) the common procurement of defence products;

Amendment 79

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 8 – point b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) accelerating the adjustment to structural changes of the production capacity of defence products, as well as related supporting activities;

Amendment 80

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 8 – point c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) the industrial development of new defence products or the upgrading of existing ones;

Amendment 81

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 8 – point d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) research activities;

Amendment 82

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 8 – point e (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) the development and procurement of necessary infrastructure.

Amendment 83

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9. The Union shall support any activity necessary for the development, industrialisation, procurement or deployment of a European Defence Project of Common Interest notably through any of the activities supported under this Section.9. The participating Member States shall ensure that criteria equivalent to those set out in Article 51 are applied in the contracts relating to the EDPCI activities supported by Union funding. For the common procurement of defence products supported by Union funding under EDPCIs, Article 48(3) shall also apply.

Amendment 84

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9a. Member States participating in an EDPCI shall ensure that the EDPCI activities, including those not supported by Union funding, comply with the objectives set out in Article 3(2), point d, sub-point (2) and in paragraph 1 of this Article and do not affect compliance of the EDPCI with the criteria set out in paragraph 2 of this Article.

Amendment 85

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9b. An EDPCI may address the development of dual-use capabilities for the Union.

Amendment 86

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9c. An EDPCI, as well as its specific activities, may be established in the framework of a SEAP.

Amendment 87

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9 d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9d. Only Member States and associated countries, as well as SEAPs consisting of Member States or of Member States and associated countries, shall be eligible for funding under EDPCI activities.

Amendment 88

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9 e (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9e. The Commission shall be able, where relevant, to participate in the project. Participating Member States may decide to involve the High Representative and the EDA as observers to an EDPCI.

Amendment 89

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9 f (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9f. Member States may, without prejudice to Articles 107 and 108 TFEU, apply support schemes and provide for administrative support to EDPCIs.

Amendment 90

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9 g (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9g. The planning, construction and operation of production facilities related to an EDPCI may be considered an imperative reason of overriding public interest within the meaning of Article 6(4) and Article 16(1), point (c), of Council Directive 92/43/EEC1a and Article 4(7) of Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council 1b, in the interests of defence within the meaning of Article 2(3) of Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council1c and in the interests of public health and safety within the meaning of Article 9(1), point (a), of Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council1d, provided that the other conditions set out in those provisions are fulfilled.
1a Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (OJ L 206, 22.7.1992, p. 7, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/1992/43/oj).
1b Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2000 establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy (OJ L 327, 22.12.2000, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2000/60/oj).
1c Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), establishing a European Chemicals Agency, amending Directive 1999/45/EC and repealing Council Regulation (EEC) No 793/93 and Commission Regulation (EC) No 1488/94 as well as Council Directive 76/769/EEC and Commission Directives 91/155/EEC, 93/67/EEC, 93/105/EC and 2000/21/EC (OJ L 396, 30.12.2006, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2006/1907/oj).
1d Directive 2009/147/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on the conservation of wild birds (OJ L 20, 26.1.2010, p. 7, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2009/147/oj).

Amendment 91

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9 h (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9h. Member States participating in an EDPCI shall submit to the Commission, on an annual basis, a joint report on the implementation of the EDPCI activities, including on compliance with the requirements set out in paragraph 10 of this Article.

Amendment 92

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9 i (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9i. Upon a proposal from the Commission, the Council, acting by qualified majority, may amend the implementing acts adopted pursuant to paragraph 3, including by removing a project as an EDPCI or by reflecting changes to the elements set out in paragraph 6.

Amendment 93

Proposal for a regulation

Article 45 – paragraph 9 j (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9j. All Member States and associated countries shall have the opportunity to join an EDPCI after its establishment, subject to the approval of all Member States participating in the EDPCI.

Amendment 94

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) collaborative development actions for new defence products and technologies, including at least system prototyping, testing, qualification, or certification;(b) collaborative development actions for new defence products and technologies, including at least system prototyping, testing, qualification, or certification, reducing duplication and market fragmentation, contributing to European standardisation of defence systems and improving interoperability between Member States’ capabilities;

Amendment 95

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) actions to support disruptive technologies for defence;(c) actions to support disruptive technologies for defence, including under EUDIS referred to in Article 49a;

Amendment 96

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 – point d a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(da) actions to support the development of technologies or assets increasing efficiency across the life cycle of defence products and technologies;

Amendment 97

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) spin-in actions to adapt civilian technologies for defence.(e) spin-in actions to adapt civilian technologies for defence, including the corresponding adaptation of infrastructures, as well as those initially developed under Regulation (EU) [XXX][Horizon Europe Framework programme for Research and Innovation]. In particular, when the defence application of a dual-use activity carried out under Regulation (EU) [XXX][Horizon Europe Framework programme for Research and Innovation] is identified, and after consultation with the participants to the action, the Commission shall, where appropriate, fast-track the action under this Regulation to enable swift uptake for the deployment or industrialisation of the activity. When assessing the possible uptake of such activity under the fast-track mechanism the Commission shall use the relevant prior evaluations, reviews and controls carried out under Regulation (EU) [XXX][Horizon Europe Framework programme for Research and Innovation] and complement the evaluation with the additional rules defined in the work programmes of this Regulation linked to the provisions of Article 53 of this Regulation, also by inviting beneficiaries to submit the necessary information;

Amendment 98

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ea) the establishment and management of an EU defence innovation sandbox;

Amendment 99

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 – point e b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(eb) the establishment and funding of a European Defence Innovation Accelerator.

Amendment 100

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1a. With the exception of actions referred to in paragraph 1, point (c), the actions referred to in this Article shall be carried out by legal entities cooperating within a consortium of at least three eligible legal entities which are established in at least three different Member States or associated countries. At least three of those eligible legal entities established in at least two different Member States or associated countries shall not, during the entire period in which the action is carried out, be controlled, directly or indirectly, by the same legal entity and shall not control each other.

Amendment 101

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1b. The results of research actions that are supported by the ECF shall be owned by the recipients generating them. Where legal entities generate results jointly and where their respective contributions cannot be ascertained, or where it is not possible to separate such joint results, the legal entities shall have joint ownership of the results. Joint owners shall enter into an agreement regarding the allocation of their shares and the terms of exercise of their joint ownership in accordance with their obligations under the grant agreement.

Amendment 102

Proposal for a regulation

Article 46 – paragraph 1 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1c. By way of derogation from the previous paragraph, where Union support is provided in the form of public procurement, results of research actions supported by the ECF shall be owned by the Union. Member States and associated countries shall enjoy access rights to the results, free of charge, upon written request.

Amendment 103

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Activities related to the enhancement of the Responsiveness, Industrial Scale-Up, and Resilience: to enhance responsiveness and resilience of the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base, enabling it to develop, produce, and sustain critical defence production capacity/capabilities at the necessary scale and speed, including through supporting the industrial scale-up of innovative companies and by supporting skills development; may cover in particular:1. Activities supporting the enhancement of the Responsiveness, Industrial Scale-Up, and Resilience: to enhance responsiveness and resilience of the EDTIB, enabling it to develop, produce, and sustain critical defence production capacity for defence products including their components and corresponding raw materials insofar as they are intended or used wholly for the production of defence products; may cover in particular:

Amendment 104

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) the optimisation, expansion, modernisation, upgrading or repurposing of existing, or the establishment of new, production capacities insofar as those components and raw materials are intended or used wholly for the production of defence products, in particular with a view to increasing production capacity or reducing lead production times, including on the basis of the procurement or acquisition of the requisite machine tools and any other necessary input;(a) the optimisation, expansion, modernisation, including automation, upgrading or repurposing of existing, or the establishment of new, production capacities insofar as those components and raw materials are intended or used wholly for the production of defence products, in particular with a view to increasing production capacity or reducing lead production and delivery times, including on the basis of the procurement or acquisition of the requisite machine tools and any other necessary input;

Amendment 105

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) the establishment of cross-border industrial partnerships, including through public private partnerships or other forms of industrial cooperation, in a joint industrial effort, such as cross-border joint ventures including activities that aim to coordinate the sourcing or reservation and stockpiling of defence products, components and corresponding raw materials insofar as those components and raw materials are intended or used wholly for the production of defence products, as well as to coordinate production capacities and production plans;(b) the establishment of cross-border industrial partnerships, including through public private partnerships or other forms of industrial cooperation, including SMEs and small mid-caps, in a joint industrial effort, such as cross-border joint ventures including activities that aim to coordinate the sourcing or reservation and stockpiling of defence products, components and corresponding raw materials insofar as those components and raw materials are intended or used wholly for the production of defence products, as well as to coordinate production capacities and production plans;

Amendment 106

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 1 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) the testing, including the necessary infrastructure, and, as appropriate, reconditioning certification of defence products with a view to addressing their obsolescence and making them useable by end users;(e) the testing, including the necessary infrastructure, such as experimentation polygons and, as appropriate, reconditioning certification of defence products with a view to addressing their obsolescence and making them useable by end users;

Amendment 107

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 1 – point f a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(fa) activities to increase interoperability and interchangeability, including the cross-certification of defence products and activities leading to mutual recognition of certification, or to facilitate the implementation of military standards, in particular NATO standards, and other relevant standards, thus reducing any excessive differentiation of defence products across the Union;

Amendment 108

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 1 – point f b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(fb) emergency defence innovation actions as set out in Regulation 2025/2643 [EDIP], where the measure referred to in Article 68 of that Regulation is activated;

Amendment 109

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 1 – point f c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(fc) coordination and technical support actions, in particular addressing identified bottlenecks in production capacities and supply chains with a view to securing and accelerating the production of crisis-relevant products in order to ensure their effective supply and timely availability.

Amendment 110

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1a. For activities referred to in paragraph 1, point (d), the action shall be carried out by a SEAP or by legal entities cooperating within a consortium of at least three eligible legal entities, of which at least two shall be established in different Member States. At least three of those eligible legal entities established in at least two different Member States shall not, during the entire period in which the action is carried out, be controlled, directly or indirectly, by the same legal entity and shall not control each other.

Amendment 111

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 2 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. To ensure the availability of defence products in time and in volume thereby fostering the competitiveness of the EDTIB as well as, where relevant, of the Ukrainian DTIB, the Commission shall support the following set of measures (EU Military Sales Mechanism – EU MSM):2. To ensure the availability of defence products in time and in volume thereby fostering the competitiveness of the EDTIB as well as, where relevant, of the Ukrainian DTIB, the Commission shall support the following set of measures (EU Military Sales Mechanism – EU MSM, as established under Regulation (EU) 2025/2643):

Amendment 112

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 2 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) the establishment, management and maintenance of defence industrial readiness pools of defence products;(a) the establishment, management and maintenance of defence industrial readiness pools of defence products, as well as the continuation of such pools established under Regulation (EU) 2025/2643, including support to the establishment and functioning of a SEAP for the purpose of managing and maintaining such a pool;

Amendment 113

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 2 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) the establishment and maintenance of a single, centralised, catalogue of defence products developed by the EDTIB; and the Ukrainian DTIB;(b) the update and maintenance of the European Military Sales Catalogue, as established under Regulation (EU) 2025/2643 that acts as a single, centralised, catalogue of defence products developed by the EDTIB; and the Ukrainian DTIB;

Amendment 114

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(ba) the facilitation of procedures for the common procurement of defence products; and

Amendment 115

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. A Defence Industrial Readiness pool, as referred to in paragraph 2, point (a), shall only be established, managed and maintained by a SEAP, as set out in Regulation [EDIP] and shall offer Member States, associated countries and Ukraine an immediate and preferential purchase or use/lease option to the defence products part of the pool.deleted

Amendment 116

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3a. Member States that establish a defence industrial readiness pool shall ensure that the establishment, management and maintenance of that pool comply with the objectives set out in Article 3, paragraph 2, point d.

Amendment 117

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 3 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3b. A defence industrial readiness pool shall offer Member States, associated countries and SEAPs an immediate and preferential purchase, use or lease for the defence products that are part of that pool.

Amendment 118

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 3 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3c. Where a defence industrial readiness pool is established in the context of a SEAP, the ECF may financially support the following:
(a) the common procurement of additional quantities of defence products through common procurement actions carried out by the SEAP;
(b) the establishment and the functioning of the SEAP for the purpose of managing and maintaining a defence industrial readiness pool.

Amendment 119

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 3 d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3d. For the purpose of Member States or, where applicable, associated countries buying from the defence industrial readiness pool established, managed and maintained by a SEAP, the procurement shall be considered as a contract awarded by a government to another government as referred to in Article 13, point (f), of Directive 2009/81/EC.

Amendment 120

Proposal for a regulation

Article 47 – paragraph 4 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4a. The European Military Sales Catalogue shall indicate whether the economic operator has the ability to decide, without restrictions imposed by non-associated third countries of by non-associated third-county entities, on the definition, adaptation and evolution of the design of the defence product, including the legal authority to substitute or remove components that are subject to restrictions imposed by non-associated third countries or by non-associated third country entities. The support received under the ECF shall also be indicated in the catalogue.

Amendment 121

Proposal for a regulation

Article 48 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. The Programme shall support activities that aim at increasing cooperation among Member States and associated countries in joint certification capability development, procurement, maintenance and availability of defence capabilities, thereby reducing fragmentation and enhancing interoperability, achieving economies of scale, ensuring faster access to needed equipment, and strengthening collective defence readiness.1. The ECF shall support activities that aim at increasing cooperation among Member States and associated countries in joint certification capability development, procurement, maintenance, availability and upgrading of defence capabilities, at any point in their lifecycle thereby reducing fragmentation and enhancing interoperability, achieving economies of scale, ensuring faster access to needed equipment, and strengthening collective defence readiness.

Amendment 122

Proposal for a regulation

Article 48 – paragraph 1 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1a. Common procurement actions shall be carried out by:
(a) a consortium of legal entities including at least three entities from at least three Member States or associated third countries of which at least two shall be contracting authorities of two different, Member States; or
(b) a SEAP.

Amendment 123

Proposal for a regulation

Article 48 – paragraph 1 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1b. The ECF may cover joint procurement as referred to in Article 15(1), point (a), of Regulation (EU) 2025/2643 [EDIP], up to the amount corresponding to the parts of the contract on non-recurrent costs, including the reservation of manufacturing capacities.

Amendment 124

Proposal for a regulation

Article 48 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Member States and associated countries carrying out an action related to common defence procurement, maintenance and availability shall appoint, by unanimity, an eligible legal entity as agent to act on their behalf for the purposes of that action. The agent shall, in particular, carry out the procurement procedures and conclude the resulting contracts with contractors on behalf of the participating countries. The procurement agent may participate in the action as a beneficiary and act as the coordinator of the consortium, therefore being able to manage and combine funds from the Programme and funds from the participating Member States and associated countries.2. Member States and associated countries carrying out an action related to common defence procurement, maintenance and availability shall appoint, by unanimity, an eligible legal entity as agent to act on their behalf for the purposes of that action. The procurement agent shall, in particular, carry out the procurement procedures and conclude the resulting contracts with contractors on behalf of the participating countries. The procurement agent may participate in the action as a beneficiary and act as the coordinator of the consortium, therefore being able to manage and combine funds from the ECF and funds from the participating Member States and associated countries

Amendment 125

Proposal for a regulation

Article 48 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. The agent shall apply in its procurement procedures and contracts criteria equivalent to those set out in Article 51 to its procurement procedures and contracts with contractors, and require in the call for tender that these criteria are applied to subcontractors.3. The procurement agent shall apply in its procurement procedures and contracts criteria equivalent to those set out in Article 51 to its procurement procedures and contracts with contractors, and require in the call for tender that these criteria are applied to subcontractors.

Amendment 126

Proposal for a regulation

Article 48 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5. Any contract resulting from an action related to Common defence procurement, maintenance and availability shall include provisions governing the purchase of additional quantities of defence products for other Member States, associated countries or Ukraine.5. Any contract resulting from an action related to Common defence procurement, maintenance and availability shall include provisions governing the purchase of additional quantities of defence products for other Member States or associated countries.

Amendment 127

Proposal for a regulation

Article 48 – paragraph 5 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5a. Before launching a procurement procedure for a common procurement action, the agent shall inform Member States not participating in the planned procedure and give them the opportunity to submit, within a reasonable timeframe, a substantiated request to the agent to purchase additional quantities of defence products for them. If such a request is submitted, the common procurement contract shall reserve the right of participating contracting authorities to purchase additional quantities of defence products for such Member States, without prejudice to applicable Union and national rules relating to the export of defence products.

Amendment 128

Proposal for a regulation

Article 48 – paragraph 5 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5b. Before launching a procurement procedure for a common procurement action, the agent shall, where possible, also inform associated countries of the planned procedure and give them the opportunity to submit a substantiated request to the agent to purchase additional quantities of defence products for them. If such a request is submitted, the common procurement contract shall reserve the right of participating contracting authorities to purchase additional quantities of defence products for associated countries.

Amendment 129

Proposal for a regulation

Article 48 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6. For the purpose of this article, ‘agent’ means a contracting authority as defined in Article 2(1), point (1), of Directive 2014/24/EU and Article 3(1) of Directive 2014/25/EU established in a Member State or an associated country, the European Defence Agency, a Structure for European Armament Programme or an international organisation that is designated by Member States, associated countries or Ukraine to conduct a common procurement on their behalf.6. For the purpose of this article, ‘agent’ means a contracting authority as defined in Article 2(1), point (1), of Directive 2014/24/EU and Article 3(1) of Directive 2014/25/EU established in a Member State or an associated country, the EDA, a SEAP or an international organisation that is designated by Member States or associated countries to conduct a common procurement on their behalf.

Amendment 130

Proposal for a regulation

Article 49 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Activities related to the enhancement of military mobility in the Union by supporting dual use of civilian-military assets, including equipment, infrastructure and superstructures, facilitating, enabling and supporting military movements and access to military mobility capabilities, including, through the pooling and sharing of military mobility assets,; this also includes supporting military bases, encompassing housing for military personnel and social infrastructure, to enable and sustain increased stationing of military personnel in Member States; may cover:1. The ECF shall support activities that aim at enhancing military mobility in the Union by supporting the dual use of civilian-military assets facilitating, enabling and assisting, including, through the pooling and sharing of such assets, which might include equipment, infrastructure and superstructures. Support may also be provided for military bases, including housing for military personnel, logistical centres located along priority military mobility corridors, and social and medical infrastructure, where this is necessary to enable and sustain the increased stationing of military personnel in Member States. Such support may cover:

Amendment 131

Proposal for a regulation

Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) The incentivisation of the procurement of products which enable or enhance the movement, transportation, or deployment of military personnel, equipment, or supplies, and improve the access to military mobility capabilities.(a) The incentivisation of the procurement of products which enable or enhance the movement, transportation, or deployment of military personnel, equipment, or supplies, and improve the access to military mobility capabilities, including on cross-border and large-scale transport projects and infrastructure.

Amendment 132

Proposal for a regulation

Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) The assistance to Member States in identifying and accessing transport and logistical resources and equipment that may be available from the commercial market or other sources for the purpose of supporting military mobility.(b) The assistance to Member States in identifying and accessing transport and logistical resources and equipment that may be available from the commercial market or other sources for the purpose of supporting military mobility, including transport capabilities for oversized and overweight military cargo.

Amendment 133

Proposal for a regulation

Article 49 – paragraph 1 – point f

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) The enhancement of the protection and resilience of infrastructures that are strategic for military mobility especially for those located on a military mobility corridor and those having a European impact.(f) The enhancement of the protection and resilience of infrastructures and energy facilities that are strategic for military mobility especially for those located along a military mobility corridor and their connections with strategic sea, inland and rail ports, those having a European impact, including those designated as strategic dual-use infrastructure (SDI) in accordance with [(EU) Regulation on Military Mobility Proposal].

Amendment 134

Proposal for a regulation

Article 49 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Activities will be implemented in complementarity with Regulation (EU) [XXX] [CEF].2. Activities in this Article shall be implemented in complementarity with those implemented pursuant to Article 80 of this Regulation and Regulation (EU) [XXX] [CEF].

Amendment 135

Proposal for a regulation

Article 49 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Article 49a
EU Defence Innovation Scheme
1. Support to new entrants, innovative start-ups, SMEs and scaleup shall take the form of a dedicated EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS). The EUDIS may include innovative and scalable activities that can address all stages of the life-cycle of defence products, including in support to disruptive technologies and to single entities (including SMEs), such as: matchmaking events and business coaching for innovators, agile funding mechanisms, live-environment testing challenges, hackathons, support to innovative procurement, iterative upgrade procurement models for rapidly evolving system and any other actions for shorter innovation cycles and technology integration, validation and experimentation, as well as production certification. The support may be provided through or in conjunction with the activities referred to in Articles 45 to 49.
2. The Commission shall support the establishment and operation in Member States of single national contact points, including advisory structures at national level, the provision of technical assistance, to be managed by the Member States, which may, at their discretion, further extend such advisory services at national level. Advisory services and related technical assistance managed by the Member State pursuant to this Article shall constitute eligible actions for funding under the ECF in accordance with Article 4(2) contributing to achievement of the objectives set out in Article 3(1)(a). The Commission shall ensure the timely and effective sharing of relevant information with national advisory authorities, enabling swift and seamless implementation of programme updates and conditions at national and sub-national levels.

Amendment 136

Proposal for a regulation

Article 50 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Complementary to provisions required in Article 11, the association agreement with third countries other than those referred to in paragraph 1 shalldeleted
(a) specify how eligibility conditions are to be adapted, in particular to enable the participation of entities established in the associated country but controlled by another third country or by another third country’ entity;
(b) lay down appropriate measures to ensure security of supply as well as any other measure required for the protection of the security and defence interests of the European Union and of the Member States;
(c) contribute to an increase in the standardisation of defence systems and a greater interoperability between Member States’ and those other third countries’ capabilities.

Amendment 137

Proposal for a regulation

Article 50 – paragraph 2 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) specify how eligibility conditions are to be adapted, in particular to enable the participation of entities established in the associated country but controlled by another third country or by another third country’ entity;deleted

Amendment 138

Proposal for a regulation

Article 50 – paragraph 2 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) lay down appropriate measures to ensure security of supply as well as any other measure required for the protection of the security and defence interests of the European Union and of the Member States;deleted

Amendment 139

Proposal for a regulation

Article 50 – paragraph 2 – point c

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) contribute to an increase in the standardisation of defence systems and a greater interoperability between Member States’ and those other third countries’ capabilities.deleted

Amendment 140

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. In addition to fulfilling any conditions of eligibility provided under Article 9 of this Regulation, Union recipients of Union funding shall comply with the obligations included in paragraphs 2 to 6.1. In addition to fulfilling any conditions of eligibility provided under Article 9 of this Regulation, Union recipients of Union funding shall comply with the obligations set out in this Article.

Amendment 141

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Recipients shall have their executive management structures in the Union or in an associated country and shall not be subject to control by a non-associated third country or by a non-associated third-country entity.2. Recipients of Union funding shall be established in and have their executive management structures in the Union or in an associated country and shall not be subject to control by a non-associated third country or by a non-associated third-country entity.

Amendment 142

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. By derogation from paragraph 2 a legal entity established in the Union or in an associated country and controlled by a non-associated third country or a non-associated third country entity shall be eligible to be a recipient of Union funding if guarantees approved in accordance with the national procedures of a Member State or associated country in which it is established; including adequate measures pursuant to screenings, as set out in Article 2, point (3), of Regulation (EU) 2019/452 are made available to the Commission.3. By way of derogation from paragraph 2 of this Article a legal entity established in the Union or in an associated country and controlled by a non-associated third country or a non-associated third country entity shall be eligible to be a recipient of Union funding if guarantees approved in accordance with the national procedures of a Member State or associated country in which it is established; including adequate measures pursuant to screenings, as set out in Article 2, point (3), of Regulation (EU) 2019/452 are made available to the Commission.

Amendment 143

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4. These guarantees measures shall provide assurances that the involvement in an action of a legal entity as referred to in that subparagraph would not contravene the security and defence interests of the Union and its Member States as established in the framework of the CFSP pursuant to Title V of the TUEU.4. The guarantees referred to in paragraph 3 of this Article shall provide assurances that the involvement in an action of a legal entity as referred to in that paragraph would not contravene the security and defence interests of the Union and its Member States as established in the framework of the CFSP pursuant to Title V of the TEU, including respect for the principle of good neighbourly relations or the objectives set out in Article 4 of this Regulation.

Amendment 144

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 5 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5. Guarantees as referred to in the first subparagraph shall in particular substantiate that, for the purposes of an action, measures are in place to ensure that:5. Guarantees as referred to in paragraph 4 shall in particular substantiate that, for the purposes of an action, measures are in place to ensure that:

Amendment 145

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 5 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) access by a non-associated third country or by a non-associated third-country entity to sensitive information relating to the action is prevented and the employees or other persons involved in the action have national security clearance issued by a Member State or an associated country, where appropriate;(b) access by a non-associated third country or by a non-associated third-country entity to classified or sensitive information relating to the action is prevented and the employees or other persons involved in the action have national security clearance issued by a Member State or an associated country, where appropriate, in accordance with national laws and regulations;

Amendment 146

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 6

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6. If considered to be appropriate by the Member State or the associated country in which the legal entity is established, additional guarantees may be provided.6. If considered to be appropriate by the Member State or the associated country in which the legal entity is established, additional guarantees to the ones referred to in paragraph 5 may be provided.

Amendment 147

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 6 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
6a. The guarantees referred to in paragraphs 5 and 6 may be based on a standardised template provided by the Commission, assisted by the committee referred to in Article 83, in order to ensure a harmonised approach throughout the Union.

Amendment 148

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 8

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
8. Unless in certain duly substantiated and exceptional circumstances to be defined in the work programme or the documents related to the award procedure, the infrastructure, facilities, assets and resources of the recipients of Union funding involved in an action which are used for the purposes of that action shall be located on the territory of a Member State or of an associated country. Where appropriate, the work programmes may set out conditional exceptions to this rule.8. Unless in certain duly substantiated and exceptional circumstances to be defined in the work programme or the documents related to the award procedure, the infrastructure, facilities, assets and resources of the recipients of Union funding involved in an action which are used for the purposes of that action shall be located on the territory of a Member State or of an associated country. Where appropriate, the work programmes may set out conditional exceptions to this rule. The costs related to activities using such infrastructure, facilities, assets or resources shall not be eligible for support from the ECF.

Amendment 149

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 9

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
9. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), points (a), (b), (e) and in Article 45(2), conditions referred to in paragraphs 2 to 6 shall apply to subcontractors involved in the action. ‘Subcontractors involved in an action’ refers to subcontractors with a direct contractual relationship to a recipient, other subcontractors to which at least 10 % of the total eligible costs of the action is allocated, and subcontractors which may require access to classified information in order to carry out the action. Subcontractors involved in an action are not members of the consortium.9. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), points (a), (b), (e) and (ea), conditions referred to in paragraphs 2 to 8 shall apply to subcontractors involved in the action. ‘Subcontractors involved in an action’ refers to subcontractors with a direct contractual relationship to a recipient, other subcontractors to which at least 10 % of the total eligible costs of the action is allocated, and subcontractors which may require access to classified information in order to carry out the action. Subcontractors involved in an action are not members of the consortium.

Amendment 150

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 10

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
10. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), points (a) and (d), conditions referred to in paragraphs 2 to 6 shall apply to subcontractors involved in the action or in the common procurement. ‘Subcontractors involved in the common procurement’ means legal entities which provides critical inputs that possess unique attributes essential for the functioning of a product, which is allocated at least 15 % of the value of the contract, and which needs access to classified information for the performance of the contract.10. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (d), conditions referred to in paragraphs 2 to 6 shall apply to subcontractors involved in the action or in the common procurement. ‘Subcontractors involved in the common procurement’ means legal entities which provides critical inputs that possess unique attributes essential for the functioning of a product, which is allocated at least 15 % of the value of the contract, and which needs access to classified information for the performance of the contract.

Amendment 151

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 11

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
11. The results of actions referred to in 44(1), points (a) and (b) and in Article 44(2), as well as the products or technologies stemming from these actions, shall not be subject to any control or restriction by a non-associated third country or by a non-associated third-country entity, directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediate legal entities, including in terms of technology transfer.11. The results of actions referred to in 44(1), points (a) and (b) and (ea), as well as the products or technologies stemming from these actions, shall not be subject to any control or restriction by a non-associated third country or by a non-associated third-country entity, directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediate legal entities, including in terms of technology transfer.

Amendment 152

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 12

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
12. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), points (a), (c) and (d), the estimated cost of components originating in the Union shall not be lower than 65 % of the estimated cost of the end product. No components shall be sourced from third countries that contravene the security and defence interests of the Union and the Member States, including respect for the principle of good neighbourly relations.12. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), points (a), (c) and (d), the estimated cost of components originating outside the Union and associated countries shall not be higher than 35 % of the estimated cost of the components of the end product. No components shall be sourced from third countries that contravene the security and defence interests of the Union and the Member States, including respect for the principle of good neighbourly relations.

Amendment 153

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 15

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
15. Except for actions referred to in Article 44, paragraph 2 or unless specified otherwise in the work programmes, Union support shall only be granted to actions carried out by:deleted
(a) legal entities cooperating within a consortium of at least three eligible legal entities which are established in at least three different Member States or associated countries. At least three of those eligible legal entities established in at least two different Member States or associated countries shall not, during the entire period in which the action is carried out, be controlled, directly or indirectly, by the same legal entity and shall not control each other;
(b) or to a Structure for European Armament Programme established in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX][EDIP]

Amendment 154

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 15 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) legal entities cooperating within a consortium of at least three eligible legal entities which are established in at least three different Member States or associated countries. At least three of those eligible legal entities established in at least two different Member States or associated countries shall not, during the entire period in which the action is carried out, be controlled, directly or indirectly, by the same legal entity and shall not control each other;deleted

Amendment 155

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 15 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) or to a Structure for European Armament Programme established in accordance with Regulation (EU) [XXX][EDIP]deleted

Amendment 156

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 16

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
16. If a register is created at Union level with the aim of increasing the availability of products that enable or enhance the mobility, transportation, or deployment of military personnel, equipment, or supplied, products supported under Article 45a shall be registered in that registry for the purpose of making that product available for the Union or its Member States.16. If a register is created at Union level with the aim of increasing the availability of products that enable or enhance the mobility, transportation, or deployment of military personnel, equipment, or supplied, products supported under Article 44(1), point (e) shall be registered in that registry for the purpose of making that product available for the Union or its Member States.

Amendment 157

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 17 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
17. Only the following legal entities shall be eligible for actions related to common defence procurement, maintenance and availability, as referred to in Article 48:17. Only the following legal entities shall be eligible for actions related to common defence procurement, maintenance and availability, as referred to in Article 48 and Article 45, paragraph 8, point (a):

Amendment 158

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 19

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
19. In accordance with Article 153(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, the evaluation committee may be assisted by independent external experts holding valid personal security clearance, if required by the work programme. By way of derogation from Article 242 of the Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, the list of independent experts shall not be made public.19. In accordance with Article 153(3) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, the evaluation committee may be assisted by independent external experts holding valid personal security clearance, if required by the work programme. The independent experts should not evaluate, advise or assist on matters with regard to which they have any conflicts of interest, in particular as regards their position at the time of the evaluation. In particular, they should not be in a position where they could use the information received to the detriment of the consortium that they evaluate. By way of derogation from Article 242 of the Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, the list of independent experts shall not be made public.

Amendment 159

Proposal for a regulation

Article 51 – paragraph 19 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
19a. Without prejudice to Article 5 of Directive 2009/43/EC, Member States shall publish general transfer licences for transfer to other Member States of products related to actions supported by the Programme.

Amendment 160

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (b), supporting the development of defence technologies and capabilities, Union support may cover up to 50% of the eligible costs or, for procurement of R&D services, up to 50% of the estimated value of the contract.3. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (b), supporting the development of defence technologies and capabilities, Union support may cover up to 75 % of the eligible costs or, for procurement of R&D services, up to 75 % of the estimated value of the contract. An action shall benefit from an increased funding rate of up to 10 additional percentage points where at least 10 % of the total eligible costs of the activity are allocated to SMEs established in Member States or in associated countries and which participate in the activity as recipients, subcontractors or other legal entities in the supply chain.

Amendment 161

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 4

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
4. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (c), the Union support may cover up to 50% of the eligible costs.4. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (c), the Union support may cover up to 35 % of the eligible costs.
By way of derogation, the Union support may be increased up to 50 % of the eligible costs where the majority of beneficiaries are SMEs or mid-caps established in Member States or in associated countries, and where at least one of the following conditions is met:
(a) the beneficiary demonstrates a contribution to the creation of new cross-border cooperation between entities established in Member States or associated countries;
(b) the action involves building new infrastructure, facilities or production lines from the ground up or on sites not previously used for such activities, contributing to the development of supply chains and technology transfer throughout the Union;
(c) the action contributes to the establishment of new, or the ramping-up of existing, manufacturing capacities of crisis-relevant products, as defined in Regulation 2025/2643 [EDIP].

Amendment 162

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 5

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
5. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (d), the Union support may cover up to 25% of the estimated value of the common procurement.5. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (d), or, by derogation from paragraph 1, actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (a), supporting common procurement of defence products, the Union support may cover up to 15 % of the estimated value of the common procurement. Such actions shall be funded by way of grants in the form of financing not linked to costs, pursuant to Article 183(3) of the Financial Regulation, and the level of the Union contribution attributed to each action shall be based on factors such as:

Amendment 163

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 5 – point a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) the degree of complexity of the common procurement, for which a proportion of the estimated value of the common procurement contract and the experience gained in similar actions may serve as an initial proxy;

Amendment 164

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 5 – point b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) the contribution of the action to improving interoperability outcomes;

Amendment 165

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 5 – point c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(c) the characteristics of the action which are likely to give rise to greater long-term investment signals to industry, in particular where the common procurement covers activities that would be eligible for funding from the Union budget, such as research and development, testing and certification, initial production or in-service support activities;

Amendment 166

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 5 – point d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) the number of participating Member States and associated countries, or the inclusion of additional Member States or associated countries in existing cooperations;

Amendment 167

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 5 – point e (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) the contribution of the action to the ramp-up of necessary manufacturing capacities;

Amendment 168

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 5 – point f (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(f) the contribution of the action to the reduction of dependencies on non-associated countries;

Amendment 169

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 5 – point g (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(g) the contribution of the action to enhancing cooperation between Member States or associated countries for the purpose of establishing, managing or maintaining defence industrial readiness pools;

Amendment 170

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 5 – point h (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(h) the contribution of the action to enhancing cooperation between Member States or associated countries resulting in the common procurement of additional quantities of defence products for Ukraine or Moldova;

Amendment 171

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 5 – point i (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(i) the complexity of the technological solutions necessary for the integration of the defence product procured within the armed forces of a participating Member State.

Amendment 172

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 6 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) where the action supports a procurement carried out by Member States up to 25% of the estimated value of the procurement;(a) where the action supports a procurement carried out by Member States up to 15 % of the estimated value of the procurement;

Amendment 173

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 7

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
7. In order to properly take into account the particular situation of the Strategic Partner concerned, the Union support may cover up to 100% of the eligible costs for actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (f).7. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (e), the Union support may cover up to 100 % of the eligible costs.

Amendment 174

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 8

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
8. By way of derogation from Article 184(6) of the Financial Regulation, for actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (a) and (b), the authorising officer responsible may authorise or impose, in the form of flat-rates, funding of the beneficiary’s indirect costs up to a maximum of 25 % total eligible direct costs, excluding direct eligible costs for subcontracting, financial support to third parties and any unit costs or lump sums which include indirect costs.8. By way of derogation from Article 184(6) of the Financial Regulation, for actions referred to in Article 44(1), points (a) and (b), the authorising officer responsible may authorise or impose, in the form of flat-rates, funding of the beneficiary’s indirect costs of 25 % total eligible direct costs, excluding direct eligible costs for subcontracting, financial support to third parties and any unit costs or lump sums which include indirect costs. Union support may cover up to 100 % of the eligible costs of non-profit entities participating in such actions.

Amendment 175

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 8 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
8a. For actions referred to in Article 44(1), point (b), indirect eligible costs may be determined in accordance with the recipient’s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that those cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities for comparable activities in the defence domain, in accordance with Article 188 of the Financial Regulation, and that they have been communicated to the Commission by the recipient.

Amendment 176

Proposal for a regulation

Article 52 – paragraph 8 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
8b. For actions referred to in Article 44(1) points (b) and (d), supporting the development of defence technologies and capabilities, the funding rate shall be increased by an additional 10 percentage points if:
(a) an action is developed in the context of a project of PESCO, as established by Council Decision (CFSP) 2017/2315, provided approval by all Members States participating in such PESCO project,
(b) an action is developed in the context of a SEAP.

Amendment 177

Proposal for a regulation

Article 53 – paragraph 1 – point -a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(-a) The coherence with the priority capability areas as defined by the CDP;

Amendment 178

Proposal for a regulation

Article 53 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) The objectives, priorities and the expected results set for the relevant action, in particular trough the evaluation of one or more of the following criteria as specified in the work programmes: (i) contribution to excellence in the defence domain, (ii) innovation capacities, (iii) cross-border cooperation, in particular with SMEs and mid-caps that bring substantial added-value to the action, (iv) competitiveness, (v) increase in production capacities and availability, (vi) reduction of lead production time, (v) increase in interoperability, (vii) increase in interchangeability and (viii) security of supply throughout the Union in response to identified risks, including in particular high exposure to the risk of materialisation of conventional military threats.(b) The objectives, priorities and the expected results set for the relevant action, in particular trough the evaluation of one or more of the following criteria as specified in the work programmes: (i) contribution to excellence in the defence domain, (i-a) increase in defence readiness, (ia) the contribution of the action to strengthening the European industrial and technological base, including the participation of EU-based industry and SMEs, and its relevance for the Union’s strategic autonomy, cybersecurity resilience and technological sovereignty, (ii) innovation capacities, (iii) cross-border cooperation, (iiia) cooperation with SMEs, mid-caps and research conducting organisations that bring substantial added-value to the action, (iiib) contribution to competitiveness, (iv) contribution to reducing dependency on non-Union sources and strengthening security of supply, (v) increase in production capacities and availability, (vi) reduction of lead production and delivery time, (vii) increase in interoperability, (viii) contribution to increasing efficiency across the life cycle of defence products and technologies, including cost-effectiveness and the potential for synergies in the procurement, maintenance and disposal processes increase in interchangeability and (ix) resilience and security of supply throughout the Union in response to identified risks, including in particular high exposure to the risk of materialisation of conventional military threats and (x) exploitation of results that have been achieved within one or several projects funded following an EU programme call with a focus on civil applications or use of infrastructures funded at least partially by the EU.

Amendment 179

Proposal for a regulation

Article 54 – paragraph 2 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) The national authorities of Member States and associated countries shall use the special report solely for purposes related to the use by or for their armed forces, or security or intelligence forces, including within the framework of their cooperative programmes. Such use shall include study, evaluation, assessment, research, design, product acceptance and certification, operation, training and disposal, as well as the assessment and drafting of technical requirements for procurement.(b) The national authorities of Member States and associated countries shall use the special report solely for their and the Union's defence purposes or security or intelligence forces, including within the framework of their cooperative programmes. Such use shall include study, evaluation, assessment, research, design, product acceptance and certification, operation, training and disposal, as well as the assessment and drafting of technical requirements for procurement.

Amendment 180

Proposal for a regulation

Article 54 – paragraph 2 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) For actions supporting development of defence technologies and capabilities, access rights to the results of development actions shall be granted to the national authorities co-financing the action under fair and reasonable conditions to be agreed upon with the recipients generating those results. Terms and conditions for the exercise of such access rights shall be set out in the contractual relationship between the recipients and the national authorities co-financing the action.(d) For actions supporting development of defence products, technologies and capabilities, access rights to the results of development actions shall be granted to the national authorities co-financing the action under fair and reasonable conditions to be agreed upon with the recipients generating those results. Terms and conditions for the exercise of such access rights shall be set out in the contractual relationship between the recipients and the national authorities co-financing the action.

Amendment 181

Proposal for a regulation

Article 54 – paragraph 2 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) For actions supporting defence industrial reinforcement, scale-up, or the establishment of strategic production capacities, the Commission shall be allowed to provide the Member States and associated countries with the relevant action documentation upon request in order to avoid double funding of the same costs.(e) For actions supporting defence industrial reinforcement, scale-up, or the establishment of strategic production capacities, the Commission shall be allowed to provide the Member States and associated countries with the relevant action documentation upon request in order to avoid double funding of the same costs without risking at any time that results or confidential information is revealed or made public.

Amendment 182

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Defence Industrial Advisory BoardDefence Industrial Steering Board

Amendment 183

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. A Defence Industrial Advisory Board is hereby established.1. A Defence Industrial Steering Board is hereby established.

Amendment 184

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. The general task of the Board is to assist and provide advice and recommendations to the Commission pursuant to this Regulation. It shall notably provide advice on the long-term investment strategy of the defence policy window.2. The general task of the Board is to assist and provide concrete advice and strategic advice, on its own initiative, recommendations to the Commission and Member States pursuant to this Regulation. It shall notably provide advice on the long-term investment and research strategy of the defence policy window based on the use of work programmes.

Amendment 185

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. The Defence Industrial Board shall be composed of representatives of the Member States, of the Commission and of the High Representative/Head of the Agency. Each Member State shall nominate one representative and one alternate representative.3. The Defence Industrial Steering Board shall be composed of representatives of all Member States, the Commission, the High Representative, representatives of the EUMC, the EDA and representatives of the European Parliament. Each Member State shall nominate one representative and one alternate representative.

Amendment 186

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – paragraph 3 a (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3a. The Defence Industrial Steering Board shall be co-chaired by a representative of the Commission and of the Member State holding the rotating presidency of the Council. The secretariat of the Board shall be ensured by the Commission. Only Member States shall have voting rights.

Amendment 187

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – paragraph 3 b (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3b. The Defence Industrial Steering Board shall meet whenever the situation requires, upon request from the Commission or a Member State or an associated country. The Defence Industrial Steering Board shall adopt its rules of procedure on the basis of a proposal submitted by the Commission.

Amendment 188

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – paragraph 3 c (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3c. The Defence Industrial Steering Board shall invite, at least once a year, representatives from national defence industry associations and selected industrial representatives to take part, as observers, in its work, taking into account the necessity to ensure a balanced geographical representation.

Amendment 189

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – paragraph 3 d (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3d. Associated countries shall have the right to become members of the Defence Industrial Steering Board, without voting rights, in accordance with the conditions set out under the Agreement on the European Economic Area, provided that these countries do not contravene the security and defence interests of the Union and its Member States, including respect for the principle of good neighbourly relations.

Amendment 190

Proposal for a regulation

Article 56 – paragraph 3 e (new)

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3e. The Commission shall ensure inclusiveness and provide members of the Defence Industrial Steering Board with equal access to information in order to ensure that the decision-making process of the Defence Industrial Steering Board, reflects the situation and the needs of all Member States. The Defence Steering Advisory Board shall take the necessary measures to ensure the safe handling and processing of classified and sensitive information.

Amendment 191

Proposal for a regulation

Article 58 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point g

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(g) Technological sovereignty, research and innovation.(g) Technological sovereignty, research and innovation for space activities including defence readiness.

Amendment 192

Proposal for a regulation

Article 59 – paragraph 2 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) the cooperation with other regional or global satellite navigation systems, including to facilitate compatibility and interoperability and the promotion of the role of the Union as a global actor in the space sector, encourage international cooperation, and support European space diplomacy.(d) the cooperation with other regional or global satellite navigation systems, including to facilitate compatibility and interoperability and the contribution to the Union's role as a global actor in the space sector, encourage international cooperation, and support European space diplomacy

Amendment 193

Proposal for a regulation

Article 60 – paragraph 1

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. The Earth Observation (EO) system shall consist of Copernicus, and of the Earth Observation Governmental Service (EOGS). Copernicus is an operational, autonomous, user-driven, civil Earth observation system under civilian control, building on the existing national and European capacities. It shall offer geo-information data and services, comprising satellites, ground infrastructure, data and information processing facilities, and distribution infrastructure, based on a free, full and open data policy and, where appropriate, integrating the needs and requirements of security.1. The Earth Observation (EO) system shall consist of Copernicus, and of the Earth Observation Governmental Service (EOGS). Copernicus is an operational, autonomous, user-driven, civil Earth observation system under civilian control, building on the existing national and European capacities. It shall offer geo-information data and services, comprising satellites, ground infrastructure, data and information processing facilities, and distribution infrastructure, based on a free, full and open data policy integrating the Union's resilience, security and defence readiness needs and requirements.

Amendment 194

Proposal for a regulation

Article 60 – paragraph 2

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
2. Copernicus shall also support the formulation, implementation and monitoring of the Union’s and its Member States’ policies in particular in the fields of environment, climate change, marine, maritime, atmosphere, agriculture and rural development, preservation of cultural heritage, civil protection, infrastructure monitoring, safety and security, as well as digital economy, under the Digital Leadership window, which shall be aligned with the objective of Copernicus.2. Copernicus shall also support the formulation, implementation and monitoring of the Union’s and its Member States’ policies in particular in the fields of environment, climate change, marine, maritime, atmosphere, agriculture and rural development, preservation of cultural heritage, civil protection, infrastructure monitoring, safety, security and defence readiness, as well as digital economy, under the Digital Leadership window, which shall be aligned with the objective of Copernicus.

Amendment 195

Proposal for a regulation

Article 60 – paragraph 7

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
7. EOGS shall provide enhanced situational awareness in support of preparedness, decision-making and the action of the Union and Member States in the fields of security and defence. EOGS shall in particular comprise satellites, ground infrastructure, data and information processing facilities, and distribution infrastructure. It shall provide secure, reliable, timely, persistent and targeted space-based Earth observation data, reinforcing existing and planned capabilities. It shall complement and build on existing capabilities provided through the European Union Satellite Centre, including those from Member States. EOGS may also provide complementary information to Copernicus Services, in particular for civil protection and security.7. EOGS shall provide enhanced situational awareness in support of preparedness, decision-making and the action of the Union and Member States in the fields of security and defence. EOGS shall in particular comprise satellites, ground infrastructure, data and information processing facilities, and distribution infrastructure. It shall provide secure, reliable, timely, persistent and targeted space-based Earth observation data, reinforcing existing and planned capabilities. It shall complement and build on existing capabilities provided through the European Union Satellite Centre, including those from Member States. EOGS may also provide complementary information to Copernicus Services, in particular for civil protection, defence readiness and security including critical infrastructure.

Amendment 196

Proposal for a regulation

Article 61 – paragraph 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) improving secure connectivity over geographical areas of strategic interest such as Africa and the Arctic as well as the Baltic, the Black Sea, Mediterranean regions and the Atlantic.(d) improving secure connectivity over geographical areas of strategic interest including Africa, the Arctic as well as the Union's Eastern Flank including the Baltic, the High North, the Black Sea, and the Mediterranean and the Atlantic.

Amendment 197

Proposal for a regulation

Article 67 – paragraph 2 – point e

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(e) exploring and leveraging synergies with complementary domains such as defence and other relevant sectors for key areas such as Artificial Intelligence and cybersecurity;(e) exploring and leveraging synergies with complementary domains such as defence and other relevant sectors including key areas such as Artificial Intelligence and cybersecurity;

Amendment 198

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 1 – introductory part

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
1. Support for civil security industry policy shall address in particular the following application areas:1. Support for civil security industry policy and increasing resilience of critical infrastructure shall be pursued in particular through the following activities:

Amendment 199

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 1 – point a

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(a) Security and resilience of critical civil infrastructures, in particular against hybrid threats;(a) Security and resilience of critical civil infrastructures, in particular against hybrid threats, physical and cyber threats, including works related to the protection, monitoring, and repair capabilities encompassing new and mature technologies;

Amendment 200

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 1 – point b

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(b) Technologies, capabilities and solutions relevant for the prevention of and response to crime, in particular terrorism and violent extremism, organised crime and cyber-enabled crime(b) Technologies, capabilities and solutions, including measures enhancing standardisation, certification, interoperability and stress-testing of security technologies, relevant for the prevention of and response to crime, in particular terrorism and violent extremism, organised crime and cyber-enabled crime;

Amendment 201

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 1 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) Civil preparedness against security threats, whether natural or human-made, accidental or intentional.(d) Civil preparedness and prevention capabilities against security threats, whether natural or human-made, accidental or intentional, including innovative measures to mitigate hybrid threats.

Amendment 202

Proposal for a regulation

Article 80 – paragraph 2 – point d

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
(d) Support actions for the development, implementation, monitoring and enforcement of relevant Union legislation and policy(d) Support actions for the development, implementation, monitoring, coordination and enforcement of relevant Union legislation and policy.

Amendment 203

Proposal for a regulation

Article 87 – title

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
Amendments to Regulation [EDIP]Amendments to Regulation (EU) 2025/2643

Amendment 204

Proposal for a regulation

Article 87 – paragraph 3

Text proposed by the CommissionAmendment
3. Chapters I, II, with the exception of the provisions related to the Ukraine Support Instrument [to be confirmed after adoption of EDIP], and V of Regulation (EU) [EDIP] shall be repealed [with effect from 1 January 2028].3. Chapters I, II, with the exception of section 4 related to Procurement, and IV of Regulation (EU) 2025/2643 shall be repealed [with effect from 1 January 2028].
Annex: declaration of input 4 paragraphs

Pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure, the rapporteur for opinion declares that he included in his opinion input on matters pertaining to the subject of the file that he received, in the preparation of the draft opinion, from the following interest representatives falling within the scope of the Interinstitutional Agreement on a mandatory transparency register, or from the following representatives of public authorities of third countries, including their diplomatic missions and embassies:

1. Interest representatives falling within the scope of the Interinstitutional Agreement on a mandatory transparency register
European Defence Research and Innovation Network (EDRIN)
2. Representatives of public authorities of third countries, including their diplomatic missions and embassies
None

The list above is drawn up under the exclusive responsibility of the rapporteur for opinion.

Where natural persons are identified in the list by their name, by their function or by both, the rapporteur for opinion declares that he has submitted to the natural persons concerned the European Parliament's Data Protection Notice No 484 (https://www.europarl.europa.eu/data-protect/index.do), which sets out the conditions applicable to the processing of their personal data and the rights linked to that processing.

Procedure pages

How the committees handled the text, and how their members voted on it.

Procedure – committee asked for opinion 1 paragraph
TitleEstablishing the European Competitiveness Fund (’ECF’), including the specific programme for defence research and innovation activities
ReferencesCOM(2025)0555 – C10-0165/2025 – 2025/0555(COD)
Committee(s) responsible Date announced in plenaryITRE 23.10.2025
Opinion by Date announced in plenarySEDE 23.10.2025
Rapporteur for opinion Date appointedRiho Terras 20.11.2025
Discussed in committee23.2.202619.3.2026
Date adopted14.4.2026
Result of final vote+: –: 0:29 6 2
Final vote by roll call by the committee asked for opinion 3 paragraphs

29 · For

ECR
Waldemar Buda, Elena Donazzan, Alberico Gambino, Reinis Pozņaks, Alexandr Vondra
EPP
Georgios Aftias, Wouter Beke, Salvatore De Meo, Michael Gahler, Christophe Gomart, Niclas Herbst, Andrey Novakov, Nicolás Pascual de la Parte, Riho Terras, Pekka Toveri, Loránt Vincze
Renew
Petras Auštrevičius, Christophe Grudler, Marjan Šarec, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Lucia Yar
S&D
Tobias Cremer, Elio Di Rupo, Ana Catarina Mendes, Sven Mikser, Thijs Reuten
Greens
Hannah Neumann, Mārtiņš Staķis, Reinier Van Lanschot

6 · Against

ESN
Hans Neuhoff
No group
Michael von der Schulenburg
Patriots
Rachel Blom, György Hölvényi
The Left
Marc Botenga, Özlem Demirel

2 · Abstained

Patriots
Jaroslava Pokorná Jermanová, Pierre-Romain Thionnet