INTRODUCTION

This report covers data from 2024 on (i) granted and denied licences from EU Member States and (ii) exports of conventional arms from EU Member States. It also covers activities related to the implementation of Council Common Position 2008/944/CFSP (1), (2), and contains non-exhaustive information on intra-EU transfers of defence-related products that are governed by Directive 2009/43/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (3).

The report is compiled by the European External Action Service (EEAS), based on data provided by EU Member States. The Sub-Working Party on Conventional Arms Exports (COARM) of the Council Working Party on Non-Proliferation and Arms Exports supports a permanent dialogue among Member States on the coherent application of the common rules governing control of arms exports.

The following third countries have officially aligned themselves with the criteria and principles of Common Position 2008/944/CFSP: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, North Macedonia, Georgia, Iceland, Montenegro and Norway. An information exchange system between the EU and Norway has been in place since 2012.

In addition to this report, data on EU Member States’ arms exports can also be also consulted online (4). The online system contains information on the value, destination and type of arms export licences from all EU Member States, as well as on actual exports from those EU Member States which report such data. It offers various graphic representations and tools to compose a wide variety of analytical compilations to all those interested in the value, military equipment and destination of European arms exports. While the online system allows users to consult data in a more user-friendly manner, the report in the Official Journal of the European Union remains the main source of information.

I.   IMPLEMENTATION OF COMMON POSITION 2008/944/CFSP (‘Common Position’)

1.   Political Dialogue meetings

Political Dialogue meetings on arms export control issues were held by the EEAS in 2024 with Norway and the United States. The political dialogues provided a forum for fruitful discussions on matters of mutual interest, such as export policies to specific destinations, compliance and control issues, and the Arms Trade Treaty. In addition, the United States also attended a COARM meeting to discuss arms export control issues with EU Member States.

2.   Dialogue with stakeholders: European Parliament, civil society and industry

The EEAS answered parliamentary questions submitted by members of the European Parliament on arms exports issues.

In accordance with past practice, COARM meetings with external entities, including with the Ukrainian Head of Division on Export Control, Directorate General for International Security and Military and Technical Cooperation (MFA), non-governmental organisations (such as ICRC and Saferworld) and companies (Conflict Armament Research) were organised regularly.

The COARM-NGO forum took place on 18 April 2024, organised by Saferworld and co-hosted by the EEAS. COARM also invited representatives from the European defence industry (ASD) to its meetings, and had debates with the participation of think tanks working on topics related to the arms trade (EU Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Consortium).

3.   Outreach

Article 11 of the Common Position calls on Member States to ‘use their best endeavours to encourage other States which export military technology or equipment to apply the criteria of the Common Position.’ The promotion of effective national arms export controls and the principles and criteria of the Common Position in selected third countries took place through the implementation of Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2539 (5) implemented by the German Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) – commonly referred to as COARM Outreach Phase VI.

EU outreach efforts directed at third countries also continued on universalisation and implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty, with activities carried out by BAFA and Expertise France under Council Decision (CFSP) 2021/2309 (6) (ATT Outreach Phase III), and by the Arms Trade Treaty Secretariat under Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2296 (7). Further details can be found below and in Annex D.

4.   Review of Common Position 2008/944/CFSP (‘Common Position’)

In 2024, COARM continued its work on the implementation of the deliverables included in the Council Conclusions (8) regarding the 2019 review of the Common Position.

Since 2022, the EEAS has been managing an internal database with country pages containing relevant information on potential and current destinations of European exports of military equipment. It includes an internal good practice paper containing elements for developing a national system on reporting actual exports. The database is only accessible to licensing officers from EU Member States and to the EEAS. It aims to contribute to further convergence in the application of the Common Position by Member States.

In paragraph 14 of its Conclusions from 2019, the Council tasked COARM to reassess the implementation of the Common Position in five years' time (2024). In 2022 the review process started, and continued throughout 2024, first within three focus groups of Member State representatives, and subsequently by negotiation, within COARM, of updates to the Common Position and User’s Guide, and new EU Council Conclusions on arms export control (9).

5.   Denial notifications and consultations

The Common Position foresees the notification of licence denials. It also foresees a consultation process when a Member State is reviewing a licence application for a transaction that is essentially identical to one denied before by another Member State. This is done via the COARM Online System. The system already demonstrated that it supports transparency between Member States in relation to specific countries of final destination and end-users.

The number of notified denials - per destination and per military list category - is included in row (d) of the tables in Annex A.I. The number of consultations issued and received by each Member State, as well as the number of consultations per destination can be found in Annexes B.I and B.II.

Defence companies in Member States are generally aware of the restrictions on arms export policies, and will usually refrain from applying for a licence if they know it is likely to be denied. A low number of denials therefore does not indicate how restrictive or not the export policy is with regard to specific destinations. On the other hand, arms embargoes imposed by the EU (10) are general prohibitions to grant licences with regard to those destinations.

6.   User’s Guide

The User’s Guide is a key instrument bringing together agreed guidance for the implementation of the operative provisions of the Common Position and the interpretation of its criteria. It is referred to in Article 13 of the Common Position. It was developed by COARM and is updated periodically: the last update, done as part of the review of the Common Position (2019) remained valid throughout 2024 (11). It is not a legally binding act, but it is endorsed by the Council.

The User’s Guide is intended for use primarily by export licensing officials (licensing officers and other officials in relevant government departments and agencies), thus substantially contributing in a pragmatic way to the convergence of Member States’ arms export control policies and procedures. With a view to supporting the operationalisation of the criteria of the Common Position, the Guide presents best practices that have been developed by COARM, building on national best practices and taking into account input from other relevant stakeholders, including civil society. Their purpose is to achieve greater consistency among Member States in the application of the criteria of the Common Position. This is achieved, for example, through the identification of factors that need to be considered when assessing export licence applications. The decision-making process is informed by the expertise of these officials on matters covering regional, legal, judicial, technical, development, as well as security and military-related issues.

The Guide is a public document available on the website of the European External Action Service (12). Its publication aims to foster transparency and understanding of motives and factors underlying actual or potential licencing decisions by Member States, even though the decisions itself might not be subject to external scrutiny.

Updating the User’s Guide is part of the review process of Common Position 2008/944/CFSP.

7.   Common Military List of the European Union

The EU Common Military List (CML) includes the military items that Member States shall require export licences for, in line with article 12 of the Common Position. It is identical to the list of defence-related products annexed to Directive 2009/43/EC. (13) The EU CML takes into account the changes in the Wassenaar Arrangement’s Munitions List agreed at the Plenary meetings of the Arrangement. The latest EU CML in use in the period covered by this report was published in the Official Journal of the European Union of 19 February 2024, (14) following changes agreed at the Wassenaar Arrangement Plenary meeting on 4-5 December 2023. (15)

8.   Arms brokering

In accordance with Article 5 of Council Common Position 2003/468/CFSP (16), Member States have put in place separate arrangements for the exchange of information on granted and denied brokering licences. Furthermore, those Member States who require brokers to obtain a written authorisation to act as brokers and/or have established a register of arms brokers, have put in place separate arrangements for the exchange of relevant information on registered brokers. Information on brokering licences can be found in Annex A.III.

Detailed information on national implementation of Common Position 2003/468/CFSP can be found in Annex C.

II.   ARMS TRADE TREATY (ATT)

1.   Involvement in the ATT: Conference of States Parties

As with previous Conferences of States Parties (CSP), the EU and its Member States played an active part in the entire preparatory cycle and the Tenth Conference of States Parties (19-23 August 2024) which put an emphasis on the role of inter-agency cooperation, as a priority theme of the Romanian Presidency.

On this topic, the CSP encouraged States Parties: (i) to share experiences throughout all ways and formats envisaged by the Treaty, including by updating the existing voluntary guidance documents for Treaty implementation; (ii) to include inter-agency cooperation in work programmes of Treaty working groups and subgroups; (iii) to consider developing a voluntary paper for interested States in developing national systems; and (iv) to support building capacities in interagency cooperation through the Voluntary Trust Fund and other forms of training.

States Parties also adopted the recommendations on Treaty Implementation, including the remaining chapters of the Voluntary Guide on the implementation of Articles 6 & 7.

The CSP exchanged views on the Treaty universalisation and endorsed the focus of universalisation efforts on Asia-Pacific.

In terms of transparency and reporting, the CSP adopted recommendations to promote the use of available assistance mechanisms, including to support the EU-funded project on capacity-building implemented by the ATT Secretariat and the “regional reporting champion” initiative. States shared concern over a worrisome trend of decrease in reporting rates with 57 % annual reports submitted in 2023, 1/5 of States Parties having never reported, and of those reporting, only 23 % made their initial reports public, which makes transparency one of the most remote objectives of the Treaty.

The Conference also encouraged further exchange of national practices of prevention and addressing gender-based violence in the ATT working groups (each of which will have a gender focal point), and invited for considering establishment of a database of resources within the ATT website.

The EU kept high profile and visibility throughout the Conference, delivering seven statements on all topics (Presidency topic – interagency cooperation, general debate, effective treaty implementation, universalisation, transparency and reporting, Secretariat, financial contributions), stressing its strong support for the ATT effective implementation and universalisation, and calling on all States to refrain from arms transfers to Russia. The EU’s significant role in the Treaty was broadly recognised, mainly by countries benefiting from outreach programmes and the ATT Secretariat implementing EU-funded projects. In addition, the EU sponsored two side-events: 1) on the EU ATT Implementation Support Programme, organized by its implementing agents - Expertise France and German Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA), and 2) on the Arms and Ammunition Management Validation System (AAMVS) – an EU-funded project implemented by Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining - Arms Management Advisory Team (GICHD-AMAT).

2.   EU ATT Implementation Support Programme

Further to its entry into force ten years ago and with so far (17) 116 States Parties, the ATT continues to face challenges in terms of its universalisation and its effective implementation by States Parties.

To contribute to addressing these challenges, the EU continues to fund an implementation support programme for third countries (18). This programme is implemented by both the German Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) and Expertise France. It provides for assistance to third countries, on their request, in strengthening their arms transfer systems in line with the requirements of the Treaty. Details of the activities in 2024 can be found in Annex D.

3.   Support to the ATT Secretariat

With the adoption of Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2296 (19) the Council agreed to support the Arms Trade Treaty Secretariat in its activities that focus on the implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty. This decision falls in line with the general EU policy objective to strengthen the multilateral framework, including in the field of arms export control. Details of the activities in 2024 can be found in Annex D.

III.   PRIORITY GUIDELINES FOR COARM FOR THE NEAR FUTURE

In 2025, COARM would, inter alia, and in addition to its standing tasks:

COARM would continue to actively reach out to other relevant groups in order to connect to adjacent fields of work, including the Working Party on Dual-Use Goods.

IV.   EUROPEAN PEACE FACILITY ASSISTANCE MEASURES

Four years after the EPF was established, implementation of EPF assistance measures (AMs) is now at a stage where decided supports are well underway and yielding concrete results. The Facility’s dual role in providing military assistance to third countries as well as financing the common costs of CSDP military missions and operations has reinforced regional security architectures and incentivised third states to enhance their partnerships with the EU and cooperate on shared security policy objectives.

The EPF is global in scope and provides support in military and defence matters to several regions of the world with a view to preventing conflicts, preserving peace and strengthening international security and stability, and promoting international human rights law and international humanitarian law. As of 31 December 2024, assistance measures in support of 26 partners have been adopted.

Overall, the EPF has contributed to strengthening the EU’s position as a reliable security provider worldwide and enhanced the EU’s visibility in these partner countries. The EPF offers both concrete operational support and in an increasingly competitive geopolitical context, helps the EU establish itself as a trusted partner that is able to deliver comparatively quickly, while fostering strong local ownership.

In many cases, EPF support has contributed to more concrete discussions with the partner countries on their needs in the area of defence development, including defence transformation projects and has deepened the EU’s situational awareness about the defence readiness of selected partners. EPF support has also contributed to a more in-depth exchange with EU Member States and international partners on the ground and informed discussions with NATO and the African Union Commission (AUC), where relevant.

Each proposal of the High Representative for an assistance measure under the EPF is accompanied by a conflict sensitivity and context analysis, as well as risk and impact assessments, monitoring and safeguards provisions and mitigating measures, as appropriate, including in the context of the Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. These built-in measures aim at ensuring compliance of EPF-funded assistance with international human rights law, international humanitarian law and EU arms export control framework. In case a beneficiary is in breach of its obligations, the Council can suspend or terminate EPF-funded assistance, as it was already the case in Mali and Niger.

Overview of EPF assistance measures adopted until 31 December 2024

1.   Assistance Measures benefiting partners in Africa

1.1.   Assistance measures taking the form of a general programme for support to the African Union (AU)

On 21 April 2022, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2022/667 on a second assistance measure (AM) taking the form of a general programme for support to the AU, this time for the period 2022-2024 (AM/GP-AU 2022-2024), initially, with a financial reference amount of EUR 600 million. Furthermore, an amount of EUR 4 million from the suspended AM to support the Armed Forces of the Republic of Mali in conjunction with the EU Training Mission in Mali was transferred to the Programme.

On 22 July 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/2034, allowing this AM taking the form of a general programme to finance actions approved by the Political and Security Committee (PSC) by 31 December 2025, therefore making the allocation of remaining funds possible for one more year than initially anticipated.

Calls for contributions amounted to EUR 135 million in 2022, EUR 106 million in 2023 and EUR 134,8 million as of 31 December 2024.

On the basis of recommendations from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (HR), the PSC approved three actions under this AM in 2022, three actions in 2023, and three more in 2024.

1.1.1.   Support to the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS)

In addition to previous support decided in 2021-2023, on 16 April 2024, the PSC approved an action in support of the military component of ATMIS for the period of 1 January to 31 December 2024 amounting to EUR 70 million. This action, as the previous ones, aimed at enabling the military component of ATMIS to fulfil its mandate, with a focus on the gradual transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali Security Forces (SSF), in line with relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCR) and the Somali Transition Plan.

Type of support: allowances for troops from Uganda, Burundi, Kenya, Djibouti, and Ethiopia, mission subsistence allowances for high-ranking officers, and death and disability compensation.

1.1.2.   Support to the Somali National Army (SNA)

In addition to previous support decided in 2021 (SNA II) and 2023 (SNA III), on 16 April 2024, the PSC approved a third action (SNA IV) in support of the SNA amounting to EUR 40 million. The action aims at further assisting the SNA with the procurement of equipment not designed to deliver lethal force to address equipment gaps required to sustain and expand current operations against al-Shabaab. The overall objective is to strengthen the military and defence capacities and capabilities of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and to support cooperation between the EU and the FGS in the area of security and defence.

Type of support: individual and collective equipment for priority SNA units, support to the construction and renovation of barracks, training facilities, military hospitals and other critical installations across Somalia to enhance the entire force's capacities and capabilities and improve response times during operations. Training ammunition.

1.1.3.   Support to the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) against Boko Haram

In addition to previous support decided in 2021 (MNJTF 2022) and 2023 (MNJTF 2023-2024), on 13 November 2024, the PSC approved a third action (MNJTF 2025) in support of the MNJTF amounting to EUR 30 million. The proposed support builds on the EU’s long-standing cooperation with the African Union Commission (AUC), Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) and the MNJTF and allows for a continuation of the current assistance provided via the AUC under the EPF until 31 December 2026. The EU remains the major contributor to the MNJTF with EUR million support for the year 2024. EU support has proven crucial to enhance the capabilities of the MNJTF, its responsiveness and coordination among its contingents. On several occasions, the AUC and the Lake Chad Basin Commission have both commended the constructive partnership and the good collaboration between the EU and MNJTF in the fight against Boko Haram. In particular, EU support to the MNJTF is key to allow the Force to be operational on the ground and fulfil its mandate by contributing to strengthening its capacities, notably in the following areas: i) planning and coordination of military operations; ii) intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR); iii) protection of troops during operations; iv) medical support; v) nautical, aerial and ground mobility; vi) IHL and IHRL training and compliance.

Type of support: financial support to military and civilian staff. Support to medical, transport and civ-mil coordination related activities and services. Training of MNJTF soldiers in counter IED and anti-drone operations, combat rescue, and analysis and interpretation of data. Delivery of four drone systems and a simulator to train in drone flight and anti-drone operations.

1.1.4.   Support to the G5 Sahel Joint Force (G5SJF)

During the FAC discussion on the Sahel on 19 February 2024, the HR proposed to adapt the EU’s political approach to the Sahel, including to adapt EU support to the G5 Sahel in order to secure the acquis and terminate its regional dimension. Consequently, the support to the G5 Sahel Joint Force decided in December 2021 was reoriented to the benefit of the security forces of Chad and Mauritania. The evolution of the political situation in Chad in light of the upcoming parliamentary and local elections, and the recent developments with regard to defence cooperation with Russia needs to be monitored closely as this could have an impact on EPF support.

Type of support: technical devices, infrastructure works, maintenance capacities.

1.1.5.   Support to the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM)

On 8 December 2022, the PSC approved an action in support of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) (20) amounting to EUR 15 million.

The action entailed the provision of equipment to support the military component of SAMIM deployed in the Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique, including mobility assets, technological devices and medical equipment, as well as an infrastructure component to improve two forward-operating bases (FOBs).

In late January 2024, the SADC Executive Secretary publicly confirmed that SAMIM would gradually withdraw by 15 July 2024.

In the context of its withdrawal, SAMIM handed over all remaining equipment provided through the EPF support to the Mozambican Armed Forces for future use, in line with the PSC recommendation (11772/22) for support to the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) under the Assistance Measure (AM) taking the form of a General Programme for support to the African Union under the European Peace Facility for the period 2022-2024.

Type of support: camp fortifications and storage containers, medical equipment, mobility assets, as well as technological devices.

1.2.   Bilateral Assistance measures in Africa

1.2.1.   Mali

The Assistance measure to support the Armed Forces of the Republic of Mali in conjunction with the EU Training Mission in Mali (EUTM Mali) remains fully suspended as decided by the PSC on 30 May 2023. This allowed for the use of the related funds for other AMs in 2023, notably in Benin, Ghana and in support of the Somali National Army.

Type of support: no equipment or infrastructure have been delivered.

1.2.2.   Mozambique

Following the establishment of EUTM Mozambique on 12 July 2021, the Council approved an urgent measure of EUR 4 million on 30 July 2021, and on 19 November 2021 adopted Decision (CFSP) 2021/2032 establishing an AM of EUR 40 million to support five military units trained by EUTM Mozambique. On 21 April 2022, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2022/668 to increase the reference amount of the AM by EUR 45 million to address the needs of all eleven units to be trained. Total support to Mozambique under this AM and the urgent measure equals EUR 89 million.

This support has allowed the aforementioned units to develop the necessary and sustainable capacities to restore safety and security in Mozambique’s northern Cabo Delgado province, thereby enabling the presence of accountable law enforcement agencies in order to protect the civilian population, and the return of accountable State structures delivering their services across Cabo Delgado. Equipment is provided exclusively to units trained by EUTM Mozambique.

Type of support: personal and collective equipment, ground mobility assets, technical devices and a field hospital.

1.2.3.   Rwanda

On 1 December 2022, the Council adopted Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/2354 on an AM to support the deployment of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) to Mozambique with a financial reference amount of EUR 20 million. On 18 November 2024, the Council adopted Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/2880 in order to continue this support for one more year with an additional EUR 20 million.

This EPF support is a testimony of the EU’s support to ‘African solutions for African problems’ and a concrete contribution to the global fight against terrorism.

At the request of the Mozambican authorities, and to partly compensate the withdrawal of SAMIM, Rwanda has deployed two additional RDF battlegroups and expanded its area of operations. The Rwandan deployment currently covers the districts of Palma, Mocimboa da Praia, Macomia and Ancuabe.

Attacks by insurgents are on the rise since the withdrawal of SAMIM. Therefore, the additional RDF presence comes at a critical juncture to avoid a security vacuum, building on significant gains made so far. The support under the EPF to the RDF deployment in Cabo Delgado is regularly praised by the Mozambican authorities.

The objective of the AM is to support the extra-costs generated by the continued deployment of units of the RDF to Mozambique’s northern province of Cabo Delgado in order to extend, protect and sustain these territorial and tactical gains. This should ensure the security and the protection of civilians in Mozambique’s northern provinces and facilitate the return of law enforcement agencies and of other accountable state structures that deliver services for the benefit of the population.

The support provided under this AM contributes to covering costs related to the acquisition of individual basic equipment kits for soldiers (21) and for the financing of air transportation of troops, supplies and equipment directly associated with RDF operations in Cabo Delgado.

Type of support: personal and collective equipment, financial support to cover costs related to the strategic airlift.

1.2.4.   Niger

On 18 July 2022, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2022/1236 on an AM to support the Nigerien Armed Forces, with a financial reference amount of EUR 25 million.

On 7 March 2023, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2023/509 for an AM to support the Nigerien Armed Forces in conjunction with the EU Military Partnership Mission in Niger (EUMPM) Niger, with a financial reference amount of EUR 40 million.

On 10 June 2023, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2023/1136 on an AM to support the Nigerien Armed Forces with military equipment designed to deliver lethal force, with a financial reference amount of EUR 4,7 million. On the same day, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2023/1137 on an AM to finance additional activities that complement the provision of military equipment to the Nigerien Armed Forces, with a financial reference amount of EUR 0,3 million.

The broad objective of these AMs was to strengthen the capabilities and resilience of the Nigerien Armed Forces to defend the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Niger and to better protect the civilian population including against the mounting terrorist threat.

Following the coup in Niger in July 2023, the HR decided to provisionally suspend these AMs.

Type of support: no equipment or infrastructure have been delivered to Niger under these AMs.

1.2.5.   Mauritania

On 1 December 2022, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2022/2355 on an AM to support the Mauritanian Armed Forces, with a financial reference amount of EUR 12 million. On 22 July 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/2015 on a second AM benefitting the Mauritanian Armed Forces.

The 2022 AM strives to support the Mauritanian Armed Forces (MAF) in their efforts to better respond to the security threats Mauritania and the region are facing. For this, it aims at improving the military capacities of two pre-identified battalions of the MAF (Bataillon des fusiliers marins of Rosso and Bataillon des fusiliers de l’air), as well as the in situ medical capacities of the MAF on the border with Mali and Western Sahara (military medical centres in Military Regions 2 and 3).

The objective of the 2024 AM, is to support Mauritania’s land and maritime surveillance and deterrence capacities to enhance the protection of the national territory and territorial waters of Mauritania. It will also help fight illegal activities at sea which have the potential to undermine the security and authority of Mauritania, thereby contributing to keep Mauritania stable, and provide better security conditions for the civilian population in the country and in the region.

Type of support: drones, rigid buoyancy patrol boats, floating docks, other nautical equipment and radios; personal protective equipment (night vision goggles, magnetic cabinets for the night vision goggles, protective helmets, bulletproof vests and plate carriers); and medical equipment (including two operational vehicles to serve as ambulances, surgical and intensive care equipment).

1.2.6.   Ghana

The Council has adopted two AMs (July 2023 and April 2024) to support the Armed Forces of Ghana (GAF) to prevent the spill over of the terrorist threat from the Sahel region, worth EUR 33,5 million and currently under implementation.

EPF support comes in the context of reinforcing relations between the EU and Ghana. It reaffirms the EU’s commitment to peace and stability in West Africa, with Ghana as a prominent partner. The EPF, in particular with its delivery of 105 vehicles seized by Operation EUNAVFOR MED IRINI in October 2023, has been perceived as a game-changer and has reinforced the image of the EU as a reliable security partner, providing essential support to the armed forces. Along the same lines, a handover ceremony for EPF-funded equipment (heavy engineering equipment, boats) took place on 26 February 2025, in the presence of the Ghanaian Minister for Defence, the National Security Advisor and the EU Ambassador. Also thanks to the support provided under the EPF, the EU is now the main security and defence partner to Ghana. The success of EPF lies in its tailor-made and partnership-driven approach, which has created trust and confidence between the EU and Ghana.

Type of support: militarised vehicles, imagery, heavy engineering equipment (grader machine, wheel loader, back-hoe loader, and a tipper truck), explosive ordnance disposal equipment, tipper truck, rapid deployment boats, foldable boats and outboard motors.

1.2.7.   The Democratic Republic of the Congo

On 20 July 2023, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2023/1518 on an AM to support the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with a financial reference amount of EUR 20 million.

Through this AM, the EU provides basic, non-lethal individual equipment, such as commando kits, first aid kits and clothing, and collective equipment, such as counter-IED kits, vehicles and radios, for the 31st Rapid Reaction Brigade of the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC). The measure will also support the rehabilitation of the brigade’s headquarters in Kindu (Maniema province).

This 31st Rapid Reaction Brigade is active in eastern DRC and the EU support will strengthen the capabilities and resilience of the FARDC in a region marked by the presence of more than one hundred armed groups.

Type of support: individual equipment, such as commando kits, first aid kits and clothing, and collective equipment, such as counter-IED kits, vehicles and radios.

1.2.8.   Benin

On 25 September 2023, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2023/2062 on an AM to support the Beninese Armed Forces (FAB), with a financial reference amount of EUR 11,75 million. Through this AM, the EU will provide Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft and Unmanned Arial Systems (UAS), including spare parts and maintenance training. The measure will, in particular, focus on supporting the Operation MIRADOR deployed in the northern parts of Benin since 2022.

On 21 May 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/1455 on a second AM to strengthen the capacities of the Beninese Armed Forces with non-lethal equipment, with a financial reference amount of EUR 25 million.

On 15 July 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/1980 on a third AM to support the Beninese Armed Forces with military equipment designed to deliver lethal force, with a financial reference amount of EUR 5 million.

Type of support: intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance aircraft and Unmanned Air Systems, including spare parts and maintenance training, qualifying trainings for pilots and drones, medical capacities.

1.2.9.   Ivory Coast

On 29 April 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/1248 on an AM to support the Armed Forces of Ivory Coast.

The AM aims at strengthening the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ivory Coast to secure areas close to the land borders and to counter non-state armed groups (NSAGs), which are destabilising the country and the whole West Africa region.

Type of support: UAV capabilities, including training and training equipment, two drone simulators.

1.2.10.   Assistance Measure to support the Somali National Army with military equipment designed to deliver lethal force

On 27 November 2023, the Council approved an AM to support the SNA with military equipment designed to deliver lethal force, with a financial reference amount of EUR 1 million.

The objective of the AM is to strengthen the capacity of the SNA to be trained at the General Dhagabadan Training Centre with a view to restoring safety and security in the country, and to protect the population. Through this AM, the EU will provide ammunition that will be used solely for training the SNA personnel in conjunction with EUTM Somalia.

Type of support: ammunition for training purposes.

1.2.11.   Military actors and navies of coastal states involved in maritime security operations in the Gulf of Guinea

1.2.11.1.   Ghana and Cameroon and the Yaoundé Architecture

On 27 November 2023, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2023/2682 on an AM to support military actors and navies of Coastal States involved in maritime security operations in the Gulf of Guinea, with a financial reference amount of EUR 21 million.

This AM seeks to enable the navies of Ghana and Cameroon to play an active role in preserving maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea within the framework of the Yaoundé architecture, in collaboration with the navies of partner countries. More broadly, it aims to complement the EU-initiated Coordinated Maritime Presence (CMP) in the Gulf of Guinea, in line with the EU’s ambition to act as a reliable security partner in the Gulf of Guinea. During the formulation of the AM, Cameroonian partners commended the EU for the demand-driven approach at the core of EPF support, which contributes to stronger ownership by the beneficiary and to increased trust towards the EU as a security partner.

Type of support: intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance services to the Yaoundé Architecture, and non-lethal equipment to the navies of Ghana and Cameroon, such as rigid hull inflatable boats, intervention speed boats, engines, light naval rotary unmanned air vehicles, marine generators for ships and scuba diving equipment.

1.2.11.2.   Benin

On 13 June 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/1715 on an AM to strengthen the capacities of the Beninese Navy, with a financial reference amount of EUR 5 million.

The measure will notably give rise to a major operation to restore the implementation conditions of the patrol boats, so as to develop their technical capacity and allow the Navy to increase its number of days at sea.

The ambition of the Beninese Navy is to develop maritime surveillance activities, but also intervention capacities, so as to reduce insecurity in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and beyond, in cooperation with the navies of the other States party to the Yaoundé Architecture.

Type of support: individual equipment for the sailors and for the organisation of the on-the-job training in Cotonou.

1.2.11.3.   Republic of the Congo

On 5 November 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/2840 on an AM to strengthen the capacities of the Navy of the Republic of the Congo in the framework of the Yaoundé Architecture, with a financial reference amount of EUR 5 million.

The aim of the measure is to restore patrol boats to operating conditions, together with the provision of equipment and consumables needed for ship maintenance, on-the-job training in naval maintenance, an upgrade of the ISR and Command and Control capacities, as well as the provision of specialised equipment for Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) teams and naval divers.

The ambition of the Congolese Navy is to develop maritime surveillance activities, but also intervention capacities in the EEZ and beyond, in cooperation with the Marines of the other States party to the Yaoundé Architecture.

Type of support: restore patrol boats to operating conditions, together with the provision of equipment and consumables needed for ship maintenance, on-the-job training in naval maintenance, an upgrade of the ISR and Command and Control capacities, as well as the provision of specialised equipment for Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) teams and naval divers.

1.2.12.   Assistance Measure to support the Kenya Defence Forces

On 24 June 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/1794 on an AM to support the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), with a financial reference amount of EUR 20 million.

The objective of the AM is to enhance the operational capabilities of the KDF to protect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Kenya and its civilian population against internal and external threats, secure border areas, and counter increased al-Shabaab operations along the border with Somalia.

Type of support: enhance the capacities and capabilities of Kenya Army infantry combat units and their related combat support and combat service support units. Support to the endeavours of the Kenya Navy to develop a naval infantry force, i.e. naval marines.

2.   Assistance measures benefiting partners in the Eastern Neighbourhood

2.1.   Ukraine

a)   Assistance measure to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine (2021)

On 2 December 2021, the Council adopted Decision (EU) 2021/2135 on an AM to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), with a financial reference amount of EUR 31 million, to support the build-up of the capabilities of the AFU in the i) medical, ii) engineering (including demining equipment), and iii) mobility/logistic, as well as iv) cyber defence branches.

Type of support: field hospitals, medical equipment, demining and engineering equipment, ground mobility, logistical assets and cyber-defence.

b)   Assistance measures to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine (2022)

In response to Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine and following the Ukrainian request of 25 February 2022 for urgent assistance, on 28 February 2022, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2022/338 on an AM for the supply of military equipment, and platforms, designed to deliver lethal force to the AFU, and Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/339 on an AM to support the AFU with equipment not designed to deliver lethal force.

Since February 2022, the EU has adopted six additional support packages for the delivery of military equipment to support the AFU: on 23 March 2022, 13 April 2022, 23 May 2022, 21 July 2022, 17 October 2022 and 2 February 2023 for a total amount of EUR 3,6 billion. On 25 April 2024, the PSC received a presentation of the HR proposals for four Council decisions amending the financial reference amounts of Council Decision 2022/338 and 2022/339 with a view to mobilising all available funds for Ukraine under the ‘old’ EPF ceiling and the newly established Ukraine Assistance Fund (UAF). The package has not yet been approved by the Council.

Type of support: ammunition, military equipment, and platforms designed to deliver lethal force for defensive purposes, non-military equipment and supplies, such as personal protective equipment, first aid kits, and fuel.

c)   Assistance measure to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine through the provision of ammunition (the three-track initiative)

Based on a Ukrainian request, on 20 March 2023, the Foreign Affairs and Defence Ministers agreed to a three-track approach with a view to speeding up delivery and joint procurement, aiming at one million rounds of artillery ammunition for Ukraine in a joint effort within the following 12 months. On 23 March 2023, the European Council welcomed this initiative.

For track 1, on 13 April 2023, the Council adopted amending Decision (CFSP) 2023/810 with a reference amount of EUR 1 billion to reimburse ammunition and missiles from stocks or from reprioritisation of existing orders, delivered to Ukraine during the period of 9 February 2023 to 31 May 2023.

For track 2, on 5 May 2023, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2023/927 on an AM to support the UAF through the provision of ammunition. The measure finances joint procurement of 155 mm calibre ammunition and missiles from economic operators established and having their production in the EU or Norway. On 25 April 2024, the PSC received a presentation of the HR’s proposal for a Council Decision to amend the financial reference amount of CD 2023/927 to reflect the accurate amount that was used under this AM. Out of the EUR 1 billion available only approx. EUR 358,5 million were used. The remainder of approx. EUR 641,5 million was added to the ongoing lethal support by topping up the reference amount of Council Decision 2022/338.

Type of support: ammunition and missiles.

d)   Assistance Measures accompanying EUMAM Ukraine

On 14 November 2022 and on 2 February 2023, the Council adopted Decisions (CFSP) 2022/2245 and 2023/231 to support the AFU trained by the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine) with lethal and non-lethal assistance.

On 28 November 2023, the Council adopted two amending Decisions to increase the financial reference amounts for both AMs to a total amount of EUR 255 million.

In 2024, the AMs continued complementing the training efforts led by EUMAM Ukraine and financed the provision of ammunition and other eligible military equipment that meets the operational requirements of EUMAM Ukraine by Member States. They also finance services, including transportation, custody, maintenance and repair of the items made available by Member States for training conducted by EUMAM Ukraine. By 31 December 2024, more than 60 000 Ukrainian soldiers were trained, with a new target of training 75 000 soldiers by the end of winter 2024-2025.

On 8 November 2024, the Council extended EUMAM’s mandate for a further two years until 15 November 2026.

Type of support: transportation and custody of trainees, maintenance and repair of the items made available by Member States for training, provision of ammunition for training purposes.

2.2.   Moldova

Following previous support decided in 2021-2023, on 4 April 2024, the Council adopted Decision (EU) 2024/1049 on an AM to support the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova, with a financial reference amount of EUR 41 million. On 13 June 2024, the Council adopted Decision (EU) 2024/1713 on an AM to support the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova, with a financial reference amount of EUR 9 million, this time providing support designed to deliver lethal force (air defence).

Since the adoption of the 2021 AM, the security situation in the Eastern Neighbourhood has changed significantly due to Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine, raising the importance of further strengthening the resilience of the Republic of Moldova. The 2024 Presidential election and referendum on EU membership were more closely contested than expected amid unprecedented interference by Russia, including with vote-buying schemes, disinformation and foreign information manipulation.

The overall objective of the AMs is to contribute to strengthening the Moldovan Armed Forces’ (MAF) capacities to enhance national security and stability, as well as the resilience of the defence sector, in line with the EU’s policy on Moldova. The AMs will allow the MAF to enhance operational effectiveness, accelerate compliance with EU standards and interoperability, and thereby better protect civilians in crises and emergencies. They will also strengthen the beneficiary’s capacities with regard to its participation in military CSDP missions and operations, as well as in other multinational operations.

The 2021 AM aims at strengthening the capacities of the MAF Military Medical Service and Engineering Battalions. The 2022 AM aims at strengthening the capacities of the logistics, mobility, command and control, cyber defence, unmanned aerial reconnaissance and tactical communications units. The 2023 AM aims at strengthening the capacities of the air surveillance, mobility and transportation, logistics, command and control, and cyber defence units. The 2024 AM (non-lethal) aims at strengthening the capacities for air surveillance, mobility and transportation, logistics, command and control, and cyber defence. The 2024 AM (lethal) aims at strengthening Moldova’s air defence capabilities.

Type of support: medical equipment and explosive ordnance disposal equipment, air surveillance, logistics, mobility and transportation, command and control, cyber defence equipment, air defence capabilities.

2.3.   Georgia

Following previous support decided in 2021, 2022 and 2023, a fourth AM to support the Georgian Defence Forces (GDF) was adopted in early 2024 with a financial reference amount of EUR 30 million.

Following the enactment of the law on ‘Transparency of Foreign Influence and other actions undermining the rule of law and democracy in Georgia’, Member States agreed in FAC on 24 June 2024 to reconsider EPF support to Georgia, in case of any further deterioration of the situation.

As a consequence, the proposed 2024 measure was not adopted. An option paper developed for the FAC discussion foresees further possible suspensions or terminations of the AMs under implementation in case of a further deterioration. On 26 October, the Georgian Dream party won a majority in parliamentary elections marred by allegations of irregularities. On 28 November 2024, the Georgian Government expressed its intention to suspend EU accession negotiations. This has triggered widespread pro-EU protests across the country as well as unlawful and brutal police force being used in this context.

The overall objective of the three AMs was to contribute to strengthening GDF capacities to enhance national security, stability and resilience in the defence sector, in line with the EU’s policy on Georgia and in light of the worsening security situation in the Eastern Neighbourhood, following Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine. The AMs aimed to allow the GDF to enhance operational effectiveness, accelerate compliance with EU standards and interoperability, and thereby better protect civilians in crises and emergencies. They aimed also to strengthen the beneficiary’s capacities with regard to its participation in military CSDP missions and operations as well as in other multinational operations.

The 2021 AM aims at strengthening GDF capacities in the military medical, engineering and logistics services of the land force components. The 2022 AM will strengthen the capacities of military medical, engineering, mobility and cyber defence units. The 2023 AM will strengthen capacities in the engineering, artillery branch mobility, medical, cyber-defence and logistics services.

Type of support: medical and engineering equipment, logistics services, ground and artillery branch mobility, cyber defence equipment.

2.4.   Armenia

On 22 July 2024, the EU adopted its first ever AM (EU) 2024/2010 in support of the Armenian Armed Forces. With a reference amount of EUR 10 million, this non-lethal assistance measure foresees the delivery of a mobile field camp capability for a battalion-sized unit, including a role-1 medical treatment facility.

The measure comes in the context of the call of the government of Armenia to give new impetus to the relations between the EU and Armenia, and the European Council’s subsequent request to present options on how best to strengthen EU-Armenia relations in all their dimensions. It should be seen in the context of Armenia’s efforts to modernise their armed forces and address a precarious regional security situation. The AM is non-lethal and focuses on training and logistics with no conceivable negative security implications for any third party.

The measure aims to enhance the resilience of Armenia, as well as its capacity and interoperability to contribute to the international military missions and operations, possibly including EU CSDP in the future, in line with Armenia’s efforts towards achieving CFSP alignment. Accelerated compliance with EU standards and interoperability will also help to better protect civilians in crises and emergencies.

Type of support: mobile field camp capability for a battalion-sized unit, including a role-1 medical treatment facility

3.   Assistance measures benefiting partners in the Western Balkans

3.1.   Bosnia and Herzegovina (AFBiH)

In addition to the regional AM to strengthen the capacities of the Balkan Medical Task Force, Bosnia and Herzegovina has benefited so far from two country-specific AMs (decided in 2021 and 2022). Both were developed in close cooperation with Operation EUFOR Althea.

The 2021 AM was concluded. Through the provision of transportation vehicles, medical vehicles and metal detectors, this AM was an important step to contribute to the demining objective in Bosnia and Herzegovina and to facilitate the future participation of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s (AFBiH) Demining Battalion in regional and international operations, including in the framework of the CSDP and the United Nations.

The objective of the 2022 AM is to improve the security and deployment conditions of the Tactical Support Brigade of the AFBiH as well as to upgrade a limited number of operational capabilities, including Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) capabilities. To this end, the AM finances the provision of field equipment, key tools for military engineering and CBRN materiel. Implementation is nearly complete and the end users' feedback is positive in terms of the relevance and quality of the equipment delivered so far.

Type of support: demining equipment, transport and medical vehicles, metal detectors, field equipment, key tools for military engineering, and CBRN materiel.

3.2.   Balkan Medical Task Force (BMTF)

On 9 June 2022, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2022/906 on an AM to support capacity building of the BMTF, with a financial reference amount of EUR 6 million.

The objective of the AM is to enhance the capacities of the medical units of the armed forces of eligible BMTF participating Nations, namely Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia as well as of the Standing Organisation itself, by procuring the necessary equipment and materiel in order to strengthen the military medical capabilities of the region.

Type of support: mobility assets, components for field hospitals at ‘role 2’ standards, laboratory equipment and supplies, and IT and communication equipment.

3.3.   The Republic of North Macedonia

North Macedonia benefits from two bilateral AMs, adopted successively on 16 March 2023 and 23 September 2024 to strengthen the capacities of the Army of the Republic of North Macedonia, with respective financial reference amounts of EUR 9 million and EUR 13 million, increased to EUR 14 million following an additional contribution.

Both AMs aim to enhance the capacities of the Army of the Republic of North Macedonia by enhancing and upgrading the equipment of its light infantry battalion group with the objective to enable them to contribute to military CSDP missions and operations. Under the 2023 AM, the support includes logistics, medical equipment, communication and information systems, intelligence capacities, CBRN, engineering and training equipment. In line with the priorities expressed by the beneficiary and given budgetary constraints, the CBRN component is not being covered. Under the 2024 AM, the support includes technologies related to intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and signal intelligence, as well as related trainings. According to the available budgetary envelope and priorities expressed by the beneficiary, the logistics, engineering equipment and communication and information systems components will not be covered.

Type of support: logistics, medical equipment, communication and information systems, intelligence capacities, CBRN, engineering and training equipment.

3.4.   Albania

The Council adopted the first bilateral AM to support the Albanian Armed Forces (AAF) on 15 July 2024, Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/1979, with a reference amount of EUR 13 million.

The objective is to strengthen the operational effectiveness of the AAF through improving the mobility, manoeuvrability and protection of the Land Force, which in turn is expected to enhance their contribution to CSDP missions and operations. The support covers the provision of light armoured multipurpose vehicles.

Type of support: light armoured multipurpose vehicles

4.   Assistance measure benefiting a partner in the Southern Neighbourhood

4.1.   Lebanon

On 1 December 2022, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2022/2356 on an AM to support the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), with a financial reference amount of EUR 6 million.

On 23 September 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/2496 on a second AM to support the LAF, with a financial reference amount of EUR 15 million.

The objective of the 2022 AM is to enhance the capabilities and the resilience of the LAF to ensure the national security and stability of Lebanon, through the enhancement of their military medical capacities, and the provision of equipment for the LAF’s operational personnel. To achieve the objective, the AM will finance equipment not designed to deliver lethal force, namely healthcare equipment to support the military medical services (central and regional centres) and individual equipment for the logistics brigade.

The overall objective of the 2024 AM is to contribute to strengthening the capacities of the LAF to enhance Lebanon’s national security, stability and resilience. The specific objective of the measure is to support the enhancement of LAF capacities for the military medical command, as well as the engineering and the logistics commands.

Type of support: healthcare equipment, individual equipment.

4.2.   Jordan

On 20 February 2023, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2023/384 on an AM to support the Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF), with a financial reference amount of EUR 7 million.

On 25 November 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/2935 on a second AM to support the JAF, with a financial reference amount of EUR 13,25 million.

The 2023 AM addresses the Government’s priorities to enhance the defence capabilities of the JAF. The AM is aimed at supporting deployed military units by supplying them with a field hospital (Role 1), including medevac capacities, engineering equipment to improve operational infrastructure, Unmanned Aerial Systems and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in support of deployed units.

The overall objective of the 2024 AM is to strengthen the capacities of the JAF, thus contributing to strengthening Jordan’s stability and national security and to protect the civilian population in the context of an increasingly tense security situation in Jordan and across its borders. The specific objective of this measure is to support operational units in charge of securing the Northern and Eastern borders of Jordan. To achieve this objective, the AM will support the Northern and Eastern JAF Commands with detection and counter measures systems, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, as well as with mobility and engineering equipment.

Type of support: field hospital (Role 1), including medevac capacities, mobility and engineering equipment, Unmanned Air Systems and Counter Unmanned Air Vehicles, surveillance and reconnaissance systems.

4.3.   Egypt

On 5 November 2024, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2024/2843 on an AM to support the Egyptian Armed Forces (EAF), with a financial reference amount of EUR 20 million.

The overall objective of the AM is to contribute to strengthening the capacities of the EAF to enhance the national security and stability of Egypt as well as to enhance the protection of civilians. The specific objective of the measure is to allow the EAF to strengthen its territorial control capabilities, and thereby to better respond to security threats across the territory of Egypt, particularly in the Western region.

Type of support: light armoured patrol vehicles, small unmanned aerial vehicle systems, light and mobile radars, googles.

5.   EPF Tables – Provision of Military Equipment in 2024 through EPF AMs

See Annex F

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF EU COMMON MILITARY LIST CATEGORIES  (22)

(1)  Legally binding for EU Member States.

(2)  Council Common Position 2008/944/CFSP of 8 December 2008 defining common rules governing control of exports of military technology and equipment (OJ L 335, 13.12.2008, p. 99) amended by Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/1560 of 16 September 2019 (OJ L 239, 17.9.2019, p. 16) and Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/779 of 14 April 2025 (OJ L, 2025/779, 15.4.2025, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2025/779/oj).

(3)  Directive 2009/43/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 6 May 2009 simplifying terms and conditions of transfers of defence-related products within the Community (OJ L 146, 10.6.2009, p. 1).

(4)   https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/eeasqap/sense/app/75fd8e6e-68ac-42dd-a078-f616633118bb/sheet/74299ecd-7a90-4b89-a509-92c9b96b86ba/state/analysis.

(5)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2539 of 13 November 2023 supporting a project on the promotion of effective arms export controls (OJ L, 2023/2539, 14.11.2023, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2023/2539/oj).

(6)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2021/2309 of 22 December 2021 on Union outreach activities in support of the implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty (OJ L 461, 27.12.2021, p. 78).

(7)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2296 of 23 October 2023 on Union support for activities of the Arms Trade Treaty Secretariat in support of the implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty (OJ L, 2023/2296, 24.10.2023, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2023/2296/oj).

(8)   https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/40660/st12195-en19.pdf.

(9)  All three texts were adopted on 14 April 2025: 1) Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/779 of 14 April 2025 amending Common Position 2008/944/CFSP defining common rules governing control of exports of military technology and equipment (OJ L, 2025/779, 15.4.2025, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2025/779/oj); 2) User’s Guide (https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-6881-2025-INIT/en/pdf); 3) Council Conclusions on arms export control (https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-7534-2025-REV-1/en/pdf).

(10)  See public online tool: EU Sanctions Map.

(11)  Replaced by a new updated text on 14 April 2025 (see footnote 9).

(12)   https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/disarmament-non-proliferation-and-arms-export-control-0_en (referring to the last updated text from 14 April 2025).

(13)  The current list of defence-related products was adopted by the Commission Delegated Directive (EU) 2023/277 of 5 October 2022 (OJ L 42, 10.2.2023, p. 1). To align the Annex of Directive 2009/43/EC with the updated Common Military List of 20 February 2023, a Delegated Directive reflecting the updates will be published by the end of 2023.

(14)   OJ C, C/2024/1945, 1.3.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2024/1945/oj.

(15)  For details, see: https://www.wassenaar.org/.

(16)  Council Common Position 2003/468/CFSP of 23 June 2003 on the control of arms brokering (OJ L 156, 25.6.2003, p. 79).

(17)  End of 2024.

(18)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2021/2309 of 22 December 2021 on Union outreach activities in support of the implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty (OJ L 461, 27.12.2021, p. 78).

(19)  Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2296 of 23 October 2023 on Union support for activities of the Arms Trade Treaty Secretariat in support of the implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty (OJ L, 2023/2296, 24.10.2023, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2023/2296/oj).

(20)  10 of SADC’s 16 Member States are contributing personnel to SAMIM: Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, with Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa and Tanzania providing combat troops.

(21)  Limited to items that are not on the Common Military List under the second phase of support adopted on 18 November 2024.

(22)  The full description of the categories as adopted by the Council in 2024 (OJ C, C/2024/1945, 1.3.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2024/1945/oj) can be found on: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52024XG01945&qid=1709821667260.