Austria to raise defence spending to 2% of GDP, joining EU security push

Austria plans to significantly increase its defence spending to 2 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) and deepen its involvement in joint European security efforts, Chancellor Christian Stocker stated.

According to Stocker, Austria intends to increase its defence spending to 2 per cent of GDP, reflecting a marked shift in the traditionally neutral country's defence posture amid growing security concerns in Europe, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

In addition to boosting national defence expenditure, Austria aims to participate in joint arms procurement programs coordinated by the European Union. This move aligns Vienna more closely with EU defence strategies while maintaining its constitutional neutrality.

The chancellor also confirmed Austria’s readiness to join the European Commission’s ambitious initiative to allocate approximately €800 billion for collective defence capabilities. The initiative is part of a broader EU effort to enhance strategic autonomy and military readiness across the continent.

Nehammer emphasized that Austria’s involvement in the European Sky Shield Initiative—a collaborative air defence system spearheaded by Germany—is fully compatible with the country's neutral status. “Participation in the European Sky Shield air defence system is compatible with Austria’s neutrality,” he affirmed.

Austria’s planned increase in defence spending and integration into EU defence frameworks marks a notable evolution in its security policy, driven by shifting geopolitical dynamics and the heightened need for regional coordination.

By Vafa Guliyeva