Patria TREMOS adapts to various mission requirements and vehicle types. (Image: Patria)

European Military Industry Revitalized with Innovations

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After a sluggish start, Europe’s defence industry is finally waking up, spurred by the war in Ukraine. Investment is pouring in, partnerships are taking shape, and new technology is rolling out, all aimed at bolstering the continent’s military readiness. A standout example is Patria TREMOS modular mortar system, developed with the Finnish Defence Forces. Conceived and launched in just two years, Patria TREMOS is a sharp, efficient answer to the demands of modern warfare.

European nations have substantially boosted their defence budgets in response to geopolitical tensions and the need for enhanced security. The European Defence Agency reports that EU Member States are closing the gap towards the NATO 2 percent guideline, with total combined defence expenditure set to reach €326 billion, which represents 1.9 percent of EU GDP in 2024. Compared to 2021, before Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, spending is up by more than 30 percent. 

Meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council at the Heads of State and Government 2024 in Washington. (Image: NATO)

After a period of gradual progress, Europe’s defence industry is now making significant strides in modernizing its military capabilities. This acceleration is driven by increased defence spending, strategic collaborations, and a focus on technological innovation to address evolving security challenges.

The Catalyst for Change: Lessons from the Ukraine War

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 served as a pivotal moment for European defence strategies. Ukraine’s ability to resist a larger adversary highlighted the necessity for modern, adaptable, and well-equipped armed forces. Traditional stationary or semi-mobile systems have shown vulnerability in dynamic, high-intensity combat scenarios. These challenges have reignited efforts to modernize Europe’s military infrastructure, with nations seeking solutions that combine mobility, firepower, and cost-efficiency.
The European defence industry has faced criticism for slow innovation in the past, often hindered by bureaucratic hurdles and fragmented cooperation among countries. However, projects like Patria TREMOS system demonstrate how partnerships, such as between the Finnish Defence Forces and Patria, can lead to breakthroughs in a remarkably short time.

Unmanned military drones have repeatedly demonstrated their critical role in the Ukraine War. (Image: Shutterstock)

Here are some key lessons from the Ukraine War:

  • Mobility and Agility: Ukraine’s rapid deployment of forces, supported by modern equipment from Western allies, underscored the importance of mobility.
  • Air Defence: The persistent threat of missile and drone attacks emphasized the need for integrated and layered air defence systems.
  • Ammunition Stockpiles: Prolonged conflict revealed Europe’s insufficient ammunition reserves.
  • Military Innovation: The effective use of drones, electronic warfare, and precision-guided weaponry showcased the growing importance of technological advancements.

These insights have driven European NATO nations to reassess their defence priorities and accelerate modernization efforts.

Strategic Collaborations and Initiatives

Collaborative efforts are central to Europe’s defence modernization. The European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), launched in 2022, aims to build an integrated European air defence system. As of 2024, 22 European states participate in the initiative, reflecting a collective commitment to strengthening air defence capabilities.

Additionally, the European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS), unveiled in March 2024, sets a vision for the European defence industrial policy until 2035. EDIS outlines actions to strengthen the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB) through increased, more collaborative, and European investment from Member States.

Technological Innovation and Industry Growth

Technological advancements are at the forefront of Europe’s defence modernization. The European Commission has significantly increased investment in military and defence technologies, with a budget rising from €590 million between 2017 and 2020 to a projected €7.3 billion for the 2021 to 2027 period. This surge in funding aims to enhance Europe’s military capabilities in response to geopolitical threats.  

This year, the European Defense Fund (EDF) has allocated €1.1 billion across 34 initiatives targeting a range of military research topics. These include developing innovative drone models, enhancing radar capabilities with advanced sensors, creating systems to counter hypersonic missile threats, and improving the analysis of satellite imagery. The fund also supports advancements in “smart weapon” technologies and cutting-edge communication systems, reflecting a broad focus on modernizing defence capabilities.

Complementing the EDF is EUDIS, a €2 billion program spanning seven years, designed to accelerate the growth of startups and small to medium-sized enterprises, with an ambitious target of supporting 400 businesses annually. Additionally, the European Investment Fund (EIF), operated under the European Investment Bank (EIB), provides critical funding for the defence sector, particularly focusing on dual-use technologies that serve both civilian and military applications.

Companies like Rheinmetall have become flagships of German rearmament, securing significant orders and forming alliances for tank development. Rheinmetall’s growth underscores the dynamic expansion within Europe’s defence sector.

Patria TREMOS: A Revolutionary Mortar System

The Patria TREMOS modular mortar system combines the best features of traditional mortar systems while addressing their limitations. It integrates mobility, rapid deployment, and cost-effectiveness, providing a game-changing solution for modern military forces. Developed in record time, the system was unveiled at the Future Mortar Systems conference in London in October 2024.

Key features of Patria TREMOS include:

  • Enhanced Mobility: Unlike traditional systems, Patria TREMOS can be detached and reinstalled onto new vehicles in the field, offering unmatched flexibility. Its innovative recoil system enables firing without ground support, significantly reducing the time required to deploy and withdraw.
  • Cost Efficiency: Patria TREMOS utilizes existing mortar components, such as barrels and ammunition, minimizing the need for expensive new equipment or retraining.
  • Rapid Deployment: The system can be ready to fire within 60 seconds of reaching a position and vacate immediately, ensuring survivability in high-risk scenarios.
  • Versatility: Compatible with both 120mm and 81mm ammunition, Patria TREMOS adapts to various mission requirements and vehicle types, including 4×4, 6×6, and 8×8 platforms.

Lessons from the Battlefield: Mobility Saves Lives

The war in Ukraine has underscored a critical lesson: mobility is key to survival. Traditional stationary mortars, though cost-effective, leave troops vulnerable to counter-battery fire. Semi-integrated systems offer moderate mobility but often lack the speed needed for modern warfare. Fully integrated systems, while powerful, are expensive and less adaptable.

Patria TREMOS bridges these gaps, offering a middle ground with superior mobility and cost-effectiveness. It allows armed forces to upgrade existing equipment into highly mobile units, avoiding the extensive costs and time required for full vehicle integration. This “plug-and-play” approach is particularly appealing to countries looking to modernize quickly without overhauling their entire arsenal.

A Global Opportunity

Patria anticipates significant demand for Patria TREMOS, not just in Europe but worldwide. Its versatility and affordability make it a compelling choice for nations balancing budget constraints with the need for cutting-edge technology. The Finnish Defence Forces have already committed to acquiring a pre-series of the system, with delivery scheduled for 2025.

A Collaborative Future for Europe’s Defence Industry

Patria TREMOS exemplifies the potential of collaborative innovation in Europe’s defence sector. By pooling expertise and leveraging existing resources, companies like Patria can deliver groundbreaking solutions in record time. As European nations continue to prioritize security and military modernization, initiatives like Patria TREMOS could pave the way for a more unified and efficient defence industry.

In a rapidly changing world, adaptability is key— and Patria TREMOS system demonstrates that the European defence industry is capable of meeting the challenge. With its innovative approach and practical benefits, Patria TREMOS is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and a focus on modern battlefield needs.

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