In a report submitted to the UK Parliament’s inquiry into European security, Airbus called for increased defense cooperation between the UK and European allies and deeper integration with NATO’s industrial frameworks.

Risk of Strategic Exclusion

Highlighting the critical role the UK plays in European defense, Airbus stated that a defense strategy excluding the UK would be harmful to both sides.

“A European industrial strategy that excludes the UK would be highly detrimental to both sides,” Airbus urged the UK government to continue its efforts to establish a Defense and Security Pact with the EU.

Furthermore, Airbus noted that the recent defense agreements signed between the UK and Germany serve as an example for strengthening bilateral ties within Europe.

The UK’s Contributions to NATO

Airbus drew attention to the critical technologies the UK provides to NATO:

• MilSatCom and SKYNET systems, which ensure secure and multi-domain communication in modern conflicts.
• These systems are used by the US and 17 NATO allies and are vital for the alliance’s operational success.
• According to Airbus, the UK’s military satellite technology export potential could generate around £10 billion in revenue.

Airbus also emphasized the UK’s global leadership in Crypt-Key technologies. This technology plays a crucial role in ensuring secure communication and coordination for NATO and countries.

“Control of Crypt-Key allows a nation to mobilize and coordinate its forces. Without sufficient national control, NATO or a country may struggle to act consistently.”

Strategic Export and Defense Industry Recommendations

Airbus made the following suggestions for the UK’s defense policy:

NATO-Aligned Export-Focused Procurement Strategies Airbus highlighted NATO’s Next Generation Rotary Wing Aircraft (NGRC) program as a model for multinational collaboration and emphasized that the UK’s supply chain should be central to export capacity.

Government-to-Government (G2G) Agreements Airbus pointed out that the UK lags behind competitors like the US and France and proposed improvements in the G2G sales approach.

Successful agreements with Romania were noted as a potential template for future models. Airbus suggested creating a new model within the government to support G2G agreements.

Non-ITAR Solutions Airbus recommended evaluating non-ITAR solutions under NATO’s CP122 program to maintain compatibility with NATO operations while ensuring sovereignty.

Defense Integration and Mutual Dependence

Airbus stressed the mutual dependence between the UK and Europe in the defense industry and emphasized the need for greater defense integration.

“We believe that the UK and the EU have a significant mutual dependence, not only in terms of industrial capabilities but also in our joint contribution to the defense of Europe and NATO.”

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