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US Politics

Trump's threats gave Europe the political will to spend more on defense. But challenges are ahead

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Trump 's threats gave Europe the political will to spend more on defense.

But challenges are ahead Europe ’s fragmented defense industry and fragmented industry.

Industry leaders and experts point out challenges Europe must overcome to be a truly self-sufficient military power.

Europe has relied on the U.S. not just for military equipment but also intelligence, surveillance and even software updates.

The European Commission is offering 150 billion euros ( $170 billion ) for member states and Ukraine to buy air defense systems, drones and strategic enablers like air transport.

Spain announced this month that it will raise defense spending by an additional 10.5 billion euros this year .

Airbus ' Dumont said Europe has to fund its European industry to prepare the defense of tomorrow .