EU troops storm the beaches as bloc aims to be military player

Politico: In southern Spain, the European Union (EU) is conducting its first real military exercise, demonstrating its determination to become a significant security and defense player independent of NATO. The exercise, dubbed LIVEX, involves some 2,800 troops, 25 aircraft and six ships, with France playing a prominent role.

The EU’s move to bolster its military capabilities is driven by factors such as Russia’s actions in Ukraine and a desire to reduce dependence on the U.S. for defense and security. These exercises represent a step towards the EU’s goal of having a full military deployment force by 2025. Notably, the exercise is not intended to simulate high-intensity combat operations, but rather to practice military operations beyond EU borders, including amphibious assault, seaport security, and ground forces. They are also intended to demonstrate that the EU can operate independently of NATO, with its institutions serving as operational headquarters.

Despite challenges such as interoperability and coordination, the EU and its member states are working toward a common military structure independent of NATO. Funding for such exercises remains a matter of debate among EU leaders, but there is confidence that EU- and NATO-led exercises can coexist.

The EU’s LIVEX military exercise in Spain is thus an important step in the bloc’s efforts to strengthen its security and defense capabilities, demonstrating its ability to act independently of NATO and respond to security challenges beyond its borders.

The entire article can be read at the link https://www.politico.eu/article/european-union-army-war-training-france-spain-nato/