Canada has officially joined the European Union’s €150-billion ($170 billion) defence initiative, SAFE, marking the first time a non-European country has participated in the programme. Prime Minister Mark Carney said the move would open “tremendous opportunities” for Canadian defence companies while helping to address critical capability gaps in European security.
SAFE, launched earlier this year, is designed to strengthen EU defence readiness by 2030. The programme focuses on key areas such as missile systems, artillery, drones, cyber and electronic warfare, air and missile defence, maritime security, and the protection of space assets. While joint projects generally require at least 65 percent of components to be produced within the EU, partner countries like Canada may receive exemptions.
Carney highlighted that joining SAFE aligns with Canada’s broader strategy to diversify its military procurement and reduce reliance on the United States, particularly in the wake of recent trade tensions. Talks between the EU and the United Kingdom over UK participation in SAFE ended last week without an agreement, largely due to disagreements over financial contributions.
Canada’s participation in SAFE is expected to strengthen transatlantic defence ties, expand markets for Canadian suppliers, and attract European investment into the country’s defence sector.
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