Spain has announced a significant €10.5 billion defence plan to quickly ramp up its military spending in order to meet NATO’s 2% of GDP target by 2025. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez presented the package as a decisive move to enhance Europe’s self-defense capabilities amidst rising global security threats.

Accelerated Commitment to NATO’s Defence Spending Target

Currently, Spain allocates only 1.3% of its GDP to defense, but under increasing pressure from NATO leaders and the United States, the country is now accelerating its timeline. Originally, Spain had committed to meeting NATO’s 2% target by 2029, but with this new proposal, the government has pledged to achieve the goal by 2025. The defense strategy, which has already been approved by the Spanish cabinet, aims to strengthen technological capabilities, cybersecurity, and the acquisition of modern military equipment.

The investment plan will be presented to both NATO and the European Union for approval, marking a key step in Spain’s evolving role within the alliance.

Adapting to Modern Security Threats

Prime Minister Sánchez highlighted the need for Europe to adapt to emerging security challenges. In a statement, he warned that modern threats go beyond conventional warfare. “Our adversaries don’t just launch missiles,” Sánchez said. “They deploy drones, sabotage energy supplies, attack undersea cables, spread disinformation, and use advanced technologies like AI and quantum computing to disrupt infrastructure.”

The Spanish leader emphasized that these evolving threats require a rapid and coordinated response from European nations. “Europe must learn to defend itself—and Spain is ready to be part of that effort,” Sánchez added, stressing Spain’s readiness to support NATO in facing these modern challenges.

Support for Ukraine’s Role in European Security

Another key aspect of Sánchez’s statement was the link between Spain’s security and the ongoing situation in Ukraine. He made it clear that Russia’s aggression poses a broad threat to all of Europe. Sánchez underscored that the stability of Ukraine is crucial to the security of Spain and its NATO allies in Eastern Europe.

“Putin’s ambitions threaten all of Europe,” Sánchez stated. “Ukraine’s fight is our fight—and Spain won’t stand aside. Our response must be united, and Spain will fulfill its duty to protect European security.”

Defence Investment Will Not Affect Social Spending

Despite criticisms from some left-wing coalition members who consider the defense budget too high, Sánchez assured that the investment would not come at the cost of welfare programs or tax hikes. The Spanish government is committed to ensuring that the defense boost does not impact fiscal stability or social spending, reaffirming the country’s promise to maintain its social programs while strengthening national security.

The Prime Minister also pointed out that the plan fulfills a commitment made by a previous conservative government and is aligned with Spain’s ongoing role in NATO, particularly during times of global uncertainty.

NATO Calls for Urgent Action on Defence Spending

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has recently called on alliance members to meet their defense spending targets more urgently. He praised countries like Spain, Italy, and Belgium for their commitment and warned that the United States could take stronger action if NATO members do not act swiftly.

“I’m asking now for 2%,” Rutte said. “But if you don’t act soon, someone far less patient may call next.”

This statement underscores the growing pressure on NATO members to meet defense spending targets amid rising global tensions, particularly in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

A Broader Shift in Europe’s Defence Posture

Spain’s new defence strategy is part of a larger trend across Europe, where countries are recalibrating their defense policies in response to new security threats. The €10.5 billion investment demonstrates Spain’s growing commitment to European security and NATO’s collective defense efforts.

As global security concerns continue to evolve, Spain’s swift action is a clear indication of its intent to be a more active participant in ensuring the safety and stability of Europe.

In conclusion, Spain’s €10.5 billion defense investment plan represents a crucial step in meeting NATO’s defense spending goal while addressing modern security challenges. With the ongoing threat posed by Russian aggression, Spain’s role in the defense of Europe is more important than ever. The country’s commitment to bolstering its military capabilities will be essential in ensuring a secure and unified European response to these evolving threats.