Europe is making strides in supplanting US-dependent defence enablers, with security experts projecting sufficient air defence capabilities within two years to counter cruise missiles and Russian threats, according to a new survey by leading think tanks. Published today, this assessment highlights timelines for key areas like strategic airlift, aerial refueling, satellite communications, battlefield C2, unmanned ISR, and long-range strike, most achievable within five years. However, integrated air and missile defence and space-based ISR may require until the early 2030s, presenting opportunities for B2B partnerships and investments in radar, sensors, and space technologies.

The survey of 16 European analysts underscores optimism for long-range strike, with half expecting adequacy in under five years, driven by ongoing projects in 500-1,000 km range missiles. Battlefield C2 and unmanned ISR are similarly within reach, bolstered by European consortia developing interoperable systems. France and Germany's Joint Early Warning project, merging satellite detection with ground radars, exemplifies collaborative R&D targeting missile threats, slated for 2-5 year deployment.

For defence contractors, this timeline signals urgent tenders for scalable production of effectors, platforms, and networks. Companies like Saab with GlobalEye airborne early warning and MBDA for missile systems are positioned for contracts, while startups in drones and AI-C2 vie for integration roles. Government agencies can leverage EU frameworks like EDF for funding collaborative bids, prioritizing modular designs for rapid scaling.

Air and missile defence gaps drive demand for protective systems, with NATO's priorities aligning procurement. Infrastructure projects for hardened sites and communication relays will proliferate, benefiting specialized suppliers. Training simulators replicating hypersonic and swarm threats become essential, alongside cybersecurity hardening against EW.

Strategic airlift and tankers show near-term sufficiency, encouraging sustainment deals and upgrades. Space ISR pessimism spurs investments in constellations, with vendors like Thales Alenia Space and OHB gaining traction. This analysis informs vendor strategies, emphasizing joint ventures to meet timelines and secure market share.

Appointments in procurement offices signal focus on readiness, with executive moves at think tanks shaping policy. Digital solutions for data fusion across domains offer high-value contracts. The push for 'operational effect against Russia' prioritizes volume production, challenging industry to innovate supply chains without war footing.

Overall, B2B decision-makers should target air defence clusters in Germany, France, Poland for partnerships. Research into hybrid threats accelerates, funding dual-use tech. This roadmap positions Europe for autonomy, unlocking billions in deals across equipment, weapons, and IT solutions, fostering a resilient industrial base.