European Telecom Capabilities for Defence Readiness

Europe’s defence readiness depends on secure, resilient communications and digital services that remain operational during crises, disruption and attack.

In this position paper, Connect Europe outlines how trusted European telecom operators can contribute to defence and civil preparedness far beyond providing connectivity. Their capabilities range from mission-critical networks and advanced cybersecurity to satellite communications, drone connectivity and counter-drone support, sovereign cloud and AI infrastructure, and distributed sensing.

The paper calls for telecom operators to be systematically integrated into EU, NATO and national defence planning, exercises and procurement. This requires clear operational requirements, stronger cross-border coordination, modernised procurement and dedicated investment in dual-use capabilities, while removing unnecessary regulatory and operational barriers.

Among its proposals, Connect Europe calls for a new EU flagship initiative under the European Defence Projects of Common Interest (EDPCIs), focused on secure communications, sensing and the digital battlespace. It also identifies opportunities for secure European defence connectivity, digital military mobility corridors, space-terrestrial resilience and shared innovation testbeds.

The objective is to turn Europe's existing telecom infrastructure, expertise and innovation capabilities into a stronger foundation for European defence readiness.