Procurement

What is collaborative procurement at EDA?

Collaborative procurement at EDA refers to situations where two or more participating Member States harmonise requirements and aggregate demand in order to carry out a procurement together, typically under an EDA ad hoc programme or project.

EDA may support such initiatives by:

• Assisting in the preparation of the procurement.
• Conducting procurement procedures on behalf of participating Member States.
• Establishing framework arrangements or contracts enabling Member States to place orders.

In these cases, EDA typically does not procure for its own needs but acts on behalf of participating Member States.

Which rules apply?

Procurement may follow the EDA financial rules (Council Decision 2016/1353), which are similar to those applicable to EU institutions and agencies.

Alternatively, collaborative procurement at EDA may be conducted under:

• Directive 2009/81/EC on Defence and Security Procurement.
• Ad hoc legal and procedural frameworks.
• Programme-specific rules agreed by participating Member States.

The applicable framework determines eligibility and participation conditions.

Who can participate?

Participation depends on the applicable rules, but economic operators should note the following principles:

• Access is primarily open to operators established in the EU and EEA.
• Access may be restricted depending on Member States' decisions.
• Third-country participation may be allowed under specific conditions.
• Participation through consortia or subcontracting may be possible.
• Additional defence-specific requirements may apply.

How are opportunities published?

Opportunities under collaborative procurement at EDA may be published through:

• TED – Tenders Electronic Daily.
• The EDA procurement webpage.
• Market consultation and industry engagement activities.

Given the specific nature of defence procurement, some preparatory activities or documentation may not be publicly available.

How can economic operators engage?

Economic operators interested in participating in collaborative procurement at EDA are encouraged to:

• Regularly monitor EDA's procurement-related publicity webpage.
• Consult EDA's EU Funding, SME Corner and B2B Platform webpages.
• Participate in market consultations and industry events.
• Ensure compliance with eligibility and security requirements.
• Align capabilities with collaborative defence initiatives.

For further information, economic operators may contact EDA at JP@eda.europa.eu.

Due to the high volume of correspondence received, EDA may not be able to respond to unsolicited enquiries.