In the event of a conflict with Russia, Europe would need to mobilize 300,000 additional soldiers without the help of the United States. Furthermore, to effectively counter Russia’s military force, significant investments in defense would be necessary. According to an analysis by the Brussels-based research institute Bruegel and the Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IFW), these investments would amount to approximately 250 billion euros annually.
Increase in Defense Spending, a Necessity
The study’s authors calculate that European states would need to form about 50 additional brigades, totaling 300,000 soldiers. Also, at least 1,400 new tanks and 2,000 infantry fighting vehicles would be required, a number that exceeds the current reserves of all the German, French, Italian, and British land forces, reports DW.
The researchers propose that European defense spending should increase annually from the current 2% to between 3.5% and 4% of GDP. For Germany, the largest economy in Europe, a rise to 3.5% would mean an increase in national defense spending from 80 billion to up to 140 billion euros.
Defense Spending as an Economic Stimulus
Massive investments in the defense sector could stimulate national economies. This is the conclusion of a study by advisory firm EY and Deka Bank. Investments in military equipment would particularly benefit the metal industry, service providers such as transport and logistics companies, metal trade, and research institutes, the authors write. The positive impact on the job market would also be “substantial.”
