Read more about the article Franco-German Relationship in the European Defence and Security 
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Franco-German Relationship in the European Defence and Security 

This paper explores the complex Franco-German relationship in European defence and security, focusing on how their strategic divergences have shaped Europe's defence landscape. It traces the historical evolution of their cooperation from the post-World War II period, marked by key agreements such as the Élysée Treaty and the creation of the Western European Union, which laid the foundations for joint defence initiatives. However, despite these efforts, France and Germany have developed contrasting strategic visions: France champions strategic autonomy, favouring military interventionism and European independence, while Germany prioritises multilateralism, with a stronger reliance on NATO and a cautious approach to military engagements. These differing defence cultures have led to operational challenges, particularly evident in recent crises such as the conflict in Ukraine, where their varied responses have impeded Europe's ability to act cohesively and swiftly. The paper argues that these ongoing strategic differences undermine Europe’s potential to develop a unified defence strategy and highlights the need for deeper Franco-German alignment to ensure a stronger, more coherent European defence posture in the face of evolving security challenges.

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8 November 2024
Read more about the article Securing the Sky: Challenges to Building a European Integrated Air and Missile Defence System
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Securing the Sky: Challenges to Building a European Integrated Air and Missile Defence System

This paper examines the prospects for a European Air Defence Shield, focusing on the technological, political and industrial challenges in creating an Integrated Air Defence (IADS). The urgency for a unified system is underscored by Russia’s war of aggression and the growing threats from hypersonic missiles, drones and electronic warfare. The European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) marks an important step towards addressing these vulnerabilities but faces significant obstacles, including fragmented procurement and national priorities. The paper explores the potential of ESSI, its limitations and the broader need for an integrated European approach to air defence.

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8 November 2024
Read more about the article The legal approach of the nuclear deterrence policy: A resurgence of the concept with the European Security Defence
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The legal approach of the nuclear deterrence policy: A resurgence of the concept with the European Security Defence

In an era characterised by resurgent geopolitical tensions, the role of nuclear deterrence is once again at the forefront of European defence strategy. Traditionally seen as a military safeguard, nuclear deterrence evolves into a complex legal construct, raising concerns about its legitimacy, constraints, and adaptability. As the Russian invasion has reignited debates over nuclear strategy, it becomes clear that the legal dimensions of deterrence reflect both a continuity of Cold War-era principles and a significant shift toward flexible, adaptive policies. 
Given the potentially disastrous effects on civilian populations, the current legal framework raises severe humanitarian questions, even though nuclear deterrence serves as a critical safeguard. Therefore, by exploring the legal basis of nuclear deterrence and its role within Europe’s defence architecture, this article highlights the need for scrutinised legal adaptability in a rapidly evolving security landscape. Maintaining credible deterrence while ensuring compliance with legal obligations and humanitarian principles remains essential to reduce civilian casualties. 

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4 November 2024
Read more about the article The Impact of Climate Change on Ground Defence Strategies
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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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31 October 2024
Read more about the article The Modernisation of the Italian Armed Forces after the 2022 Russian Invasion of Ukraine
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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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29 October 2024