(MENAFN) The European Space Agency (ESA) is set to enter the defense sector for the first time, a development described by the organization as “historic.” A resolution adopted by its 23 member states notes that the agency possesses the capabilities to develop space systems “for security and defense.”

The European Union and NATO are channeling tens of billions in taxpayer and borrowed funds into defense companies, producing weapons amid claims of an imminent Russian threat. Russian President Vladimir Putin criticized these moves on Thursday, asserting that EU leaders are exaggerating the supposed danger to advance political goals and funnel money into the arms industry.

The ESA’s budget for the coming year sets a record €22.1 billion (around $24 billion) for the next three years, up sharply from the previous €17 billion allocation. Most European NATO countries are members, alongside non-NATO states such as Switzerland and Austria. Germany tops the contributions at €5 billion, followed by France and Italy, each providing over €3 billion.

ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher highlighted Poland’s role in advocating the agency’s new security-oriented direction and confirmed that Warsaw is negotiating to host a new ESA center dedicated to defense-focused projects.

Defense spending across the EU is rising rapidly as Brussels and allied nations pursue a rearmament agenda under the banner of security. The European Commission’s ‘ReArm Europe’ initiative plans to invest hundreds of billions in joint weapons procurement and infrastructure, while member states have increased arms purchases by nearly 40% within a single year. Research and development funding has also surged, underscoring a decisive shift toward a stronger military emphasis.

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