The Impact of Climate Change on Ground Defence Strategies

As climate change reshapes the global landscape, its impact is vast not just in its effect on the environment but also politics, economics and security. For European militaries, climate change is a “threat multiplier”, intensifying resource competition, migration as well as instability. From extreme weather disrupting operations to the growing demand for disaster relief, armed forces need to adapt to new challenges. This paper investigates how European military strategies are evolving in order to combat climate related threats, assessing the implications for national security and NATO’s collective defence. The future of defence is climate conscious- are we ready?

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The Modernisation of the Italian Armed Forces after the 2022 Russian Invasion of Ukraine

The 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine has been a wake-up call for many countries in Europe, which decided to start a comprehensive modernization of their armed forces after decades of neglect. Although traditionally sceptical about prioritising the strengthening of its military, Italy is raising its defence expenditures to address the structural problems of its armed forces, which include a lack of personnel and adequate equipment. While these steps are surely essential, there is more that Italy can do to further improve the condition of its land, naval and air forces, including a better allocation of resources, the integration of innovative weapons systems in its arsenals and an increased proactivity in some European collaborative defence projects.

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The New Portfolio of Defence and Space Commissioner: Key Priorities and Challenges Ahead

In this paper, Marek Gallo analyses the implications of the newly created post of Defence and Space Commissioner (DaSC) for the European security architecture. The appointment of Andrius Kubilius reflects a strategic shift aimed at bolstering the EU’s defence industry and achieving greater strategic autonomy in response to Russian aggression and global instability. However, this paper argues that while the DaSC role emphasises joint procurement and enhanced interoperability, the portfolio lacks the authority to drive substantial defence reforms. At the same time, Kubilius' success depends on securing resources, overcoming institutional hesitancy, and fostering collaboration with NATO. Additionally, the EU’s cost-effective space policy focuses on regulatory leadership and space programmes continuity, rather than militarisation. This paper constructively highlights the challenges Kubilius will face in aligning immediate security concerns with long-term strategic objectives, positioning the DaSC as a symbolic yet limited step in strengthening Europe’s defence posture.

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Command and Control Insights from Ukraine

Examining the role of Command and Control (C2) dynamics in the war in Ukraine, this article highlights the advantages of decentralised over traditional command systems in multi-front combat lines. The research showcases the benefits of utilising decentralised C2 frameworks for European armed forces in specialised scenarios, such as the one at hand, implying that better operational efficacy and strategic posture in upcoming wars hinge on greater flexibility and real-time information.

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Greek Efforts in renewed Air Superiority Doctrine– A Scramble for Security or Conflict?

Greece is taking significant steps in securing its air superiority in the Aegean Sea with modernised fighter jets and drone technologies. As part of a broader defense modernisation strategy "Agenda 2030", the country is planning to integrate Switchblade drones into its military framework to bolster surveillance and precision strike capabilities. At the same time, the acquisition of F-35 jets and Rafale fighters strengthens Greece's air defense  in response to regional tensions with Turkey. The question remains: is this buildup a proactive defense strategy  or a sign of escalating conflict  in the Mediterranean region? 

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