The foundation of our freedom

Defence matters

The world is becoming increasingly volatile, and the nature of conflict is shifting. When threats evolve at lightning speed, a society’s ability to protect itself is its most vital asset.

Defence is the framework that gives our lives stability and enables us to live and speak freely. It is the bedrock of national sovereignty, ensuring our independence to make our own choices and giving our society the resilience to progress in the long term. Defence is always present, even if we don't directly notice it.

Above all, defence is a commitment to safeguarding our way of life, fending off aggression and preventing crises, always prepared and ready to respond. But while the notion of security is central, the defence sector also contributes in other ways, from strengthening the economy to driving technological innovation.

By pioneering cutting-edge defence technologies, Airbus provides the solutions vital for protecting nations against evolving threats. From military aircraft and helicopters to satellites and cybersecurity solutions, our innovations protect sovereign airspace, facilitate life-saving search and rescue operations, and help civil authorities to ensure public safety during emergencies.

What defence is all about

Ensuring security

Defence is about preventing conflicts from reaching our doorstep. It means averting harm, safeguarding our rights and protecting our democratic values from external coercion.

Maintaining stability

Defence forces are the world's first responders. From disaster relief to protecting trade routes and critical infrastructure, they enable us to go about our daily lives.

Driving innovation

The defence sector drives innovation in technologies like cyber, robotics and quantum computing. These often transition into civilian life, providing benefits for society at large.

Boosting the economy

The defence sector supports millions of jobs through its intricate supply chains, generating billions for national economies and strengthening resilience. 

Join our digital broadcast on 20 May to hear from our company's leaders to learn how Airbus is driving innovation to provide armed forces with a cutting-edge portfolio.

What does security mean to you?

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Your defence questions answered

FAQs

Does defence spending really matter? What does sovereignty entail? Get answers to frequently asked questions on defence.

Why is defence spending necessary?

Defence spending acts as an insurance policy for our way of life, enabling us to prevent crises and deter aggression, provide rapid relief wherever and whenever it is needed, and protect the infrastructure we rely on every day.

Furthermore, defence spending has a significant economic impact. Consider the European Union, for example. Defence expenditure accounts for around 2% of the EU’s GDP, and R&D spending was around €17 billion in 2025. This included significant investment in cutting-edge technologies such as AI, quantum, drone/counter-drone systems, and cyber defence.

Why is technological sovereignty important in defence?

Technological sovereignty is the key to ensuring independence. It means being able to rely on your own products, solutions and capabilities without the interference of other powers or the threat of a 'kill switch'. Homegrown defence solutions enable nations to act decisively and protect their values whenever needed.  

Why should I pursue a career in defence?

A career in defence offers the chance to work on cutting-edge technologies that play a vital role in safeguarding our collective security. The defence sector is currently undergoing major transformations, from defining the future of military aircraft and rotorcraft to developing uncrewed systems and the software solutions that connect all of them. And you? You could play a key role in driving all of this.

Interested in pursuing a career in defence with Airbus? Then check out our job openings.

How does defence tech benefit my daily life?

Many of the technologies you interact with every day are the result of innovations driven by the defence sector. From navigation systems to the internet itself, they all have roots in defence research. It's as if you're benefiting from a huge incubator for the technologies of tomorrow. When a product can be used for both military and civilian purposes, it is referred to as 'dual-use'.

Why does space matter for our security?

You might not notice it, but space technology is a daily companion in modern life. Satellites are key enablers of communication and navigation, both for civilians and for our soldiers. Furthermore, Earth observation satellites provide valuable intelligence that armed forces use to stay on top of threats. Space is therefore a backbone of our security, as it renders our armed forces ready to act. At the same time, more and more powers are competing for dominance in the space domain, which is why we also have to protect our assets orbiting the Earth.

How do Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) play a role in modern defence?

Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS), also known as drones, serve as essential partners to crewed platforms, handling high-risk surveillance and long-endurance missions to keep personnel out of harm's way. They provide a continuous digital picture of the battlefield, allowing for faster and more accurate decision-making. 

Airbus defence products in action

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