Spain to Boost Defense Budget by $12 Billion by 2025
**Spain is set to increase its defense budget by $12 billion, bringing the total to $34 billion by 2025.** Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced this substantial investment during a press conference, affirming that the country would align with NATO’s target of dedicating 2% of its gross domestic product (GDP) to defense. This move marks a significant shift in Spain’s military spending strategy, which has previously faced criticism for being inadequate.
The newly outlined military investment plan includes an infusion of €10.5 billion (approximately $12 billion), aimed at enhancing national security and addressing persistent concerns regarding defense capabilities. Sánchez remarked on the historical importance of this initiative, stating, ‘We are witnessing a historic moment. We will do justice to this moment. We will fulfill our responsibilities without compromising our values and interests.’ Ensuring the safety of Spain and its citizens remains the primary objective of the new spending plan.
Addressing Modern Threats and EU Role
According to a report by Breaking Defense, Sánchez emphasized the urgency of addressing various threats to Spain, including missile attacks and cyber threats. He noted that responses to these challenges, posed by adversaries in Europe, will be executed in ‘record time.’ This response capability is crucial, as it underlines Spain’s commitment to safeguarding both its sovereignty and that of its European partners.
Another key goal outlined in the investment plan is for Spain to emerge as a central and reliable player within the European Union and NATO. By enhancing its contributions to collective defense efforts, Spain aims to reinforce its strategic importance on the European stage and reassure its allies of its commitment to mutual defense.
Innovation and Dual-Use Technologies
The defense budget of €33 billion for 2025 will see approximately 35% of the extra funds directed towards improving the working conditions of soldiers, training activities, and acquiring new military equipment. However, specific details regarding large-scale acquisitions in air, land, sea, or space have yet to be disclosed by Sánchez.
One major highlight of the investment plan is the commitment of €3.26 billion to establish a ‘digital shield.’ This initiative aims to modernize communication systems and bolster cybersecurity efforts in both civilian and military sectors. Investments will also focus on advanced technologies, including satellites, radar, antennas, cloud infrastructure, 5G connectivity, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing.
Climate Change Preparedness
In addition to traditional defense enhancements, approximately €2 billion will be channeled towards acquiring equipment related to defense and deterrence. A notable portion of this budget—€1.75 billion—will be invested in strengthening the armed forces’ capabilities to respond to climate change-related disasters. This includes procuring search and rescue helicopters, firefighting aircraft, and support vessels.
Such investments indicate a recognition of the evolving threats posed by climate change, as well as a proactive approach to disaster response. This dual-capability enhancement aligns with broader global defense trends that acknowledge non-traditional security challenges.
A Shift in NATO Spending
As of 2024, Spain’s defense spending was among the lowest within NATO, with only 1.4% of its GDP allocated to defense. However, this new plan to elevate the figure to 2% is a pivotal move that underscores Madrid’s seriousness about its role within the alliance and its dedication to enhancing collective security.
The commitment to reach the NATO benchmark is seen not only as a measure of Spain’s defense posture but also as a signal to its allies regarding its strategic priorities in the current geopolitical landscape.
