To tap into EDA’s collective memory, European Defence Matters brought together those who, as Chief Executives, have steered the Agency through fifteen exciting yet challenging years: Nick Witney (2004–2007), Claude-France Arnould (2011–2015) and Jorge Domecq (in charge since 2015). Alexander Weis, who served as Chief Executive from 2007-2011, could unfortunately not join this exceptional come-together. Question Time.

In an exclusive interview with European Defence Matters, MBDA’s new CEO Eric Béranger shares his views and analysis on how European defence cooperation and EDA’s role in it have evolved over the past 15 years and what the industrial prospects and challenges are for the future. He also touches upon the implementation of the most recent EU defence initiatives, some current and upcoming European capability projects as well as Brexit.

Europe and North America, NATO and the European Union face unprecedented challenges and threats from multiple directions. To the east, Russia’s aggressive actions aim to destabilise and intimidate neighbours and Allies and undermine NATO and the EU. To the south, instability, continuing crises, regional conflicts and wars across North Africa and the Middle East have fuelled terrorism and caused mass migration affecting Europe’s stability. In addition, China’s global aspirations, economic potential and growing military power increasingly challenge the transatlantic community.

Over the past 15 years, the European Defence Agency has developed close and important working relationships with a wide variety of EU institutions, agencies and bodies as well as other European organisations. A selection of thoughts and reflections from some of them.

This summer, the European Defence Agency celebrates its 15th anniversary. What lies ahead in the next 15 years? An analysis and outlook by Dick Zandee, Head of the Security Unit of the research department of the Clingendael Institute in The Hague.