# European Leaders Back Joint Defence Procurement

At the November 9, 2026 Eurogroup meeting in Brussels, Lithuania’s Finance Minister Taurimas Valys and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte discussed sustaining higher European defence spending, improving its efficiency, and expanding joint procurement. Eurogroup President Kyriakos Pierrakakis also called for coordinated defence purchases, research and emerging-technology investment, continued support for Ukraine, and greater private investment. The signals indicate policy-level support for EU initiatives including SAFE and EDPCI and their continuation in the next Multiannual Financial Framework, but announce no solicitation, award, funding amount, or procurement deadline.

- European defence contractors can assess how their capabilities align with cross-border joint purchasing and research priorities; the signals do not identify specific requirements or open competitions.
- Innovative technology firms and smaller businesses may find opportunities as European leaders seek greater private investment and emphasize research and emerging technologies.
- Procurement teams should distinguish this policy direction from funded opportunities: no specific contract, budget, or application process is announced.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** November 09, 2026

### Government Entities
- Eurogroup (EG)
- North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
- European Union (EU)
- Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Lithuania

### Key Quotes
> Lithuania understands that defence funding is a long-term priority for the EU Member States in view of Europe's growing defence needs, especially for the EU's eastern border countries, therefore, defence and security, including comprehensive support for Ukraine, will be one of the main priorities of the Lithuanian Presidency of the Council of the EU
> — Taurimas Valys, Minister of Finance

### Sources
- [T. Valys in a discussion with M. Rutte: "Europe needs to strengthen joint defence acquisitions and ensure sustainable financing" - Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Lithuania](https://finmin.lrv.lt/en/news/t-valys-in-a-discussion-with-m-rutte-europe-needs-to-strengthen-joint-defence-acquisitions-and-ensure-sustainable-financing-s20T) - Finansų ministerija
- [Eurogroup chief calls for joint defense purchases, greater private investment](https://www.usmuslims.com/service/amp/eurogroup-chief-calls-for-joint-defense-purchases-greater-private-investment-380685h.htm) - US Muslims