Ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara, four European states agreed a new defense pact that will streamline procurement and boost interoperability.

Four countries – the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Finland, and Poland – have agreed to create a new multilateral defense mechanism designed to coordinate joint actions in a rapidly changing security environment and reaffirm support for Ukraine in confronting Russian aggression. The official information was released by the British government’s press office in a joint statement by the mechanism’s participants, issued today.

On the eve of the NATO summit in Ankara, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Finland, and Poland reaffirm our shared commitment to strengthen defense funding and to improve the cost-effectiveness of defense spending to transform our collective defensive capabilities

– joint statement

Given the rapidly changing international security landscape and the consequences of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the four countries pledge to “act together to be ready for future threats”.

We remain committed to supporting Ukraine in defending its sovereignty and resisting Russian aggression

– in the statement

Defense equipment procurement in Europe is too fragmented, expensive, and slow. That is why I am working on creating a Multilateral Defense Mechanism that will strengthen cooperation, improve procurement, and enhance our collective deterrence

– Rachel Reeves

In a world that is changing around us, we are strongest when we work in step with our allies. I am pleased to welcome Poland into the Multilateral Defense Mechanism to strengthen our defense and ensure the security of us and our allies

– official statement

The text also notes that the countries plan to expand the mechanism beyond its current participants, drawing on technological development and moving to the next design stage with partner participants during the autumn. It also mentions the alignment and complementarities of new approaches to international defense financing in coordination with other NATO allies to increase operational potential and interoperability.

According to reports, the capital of Turkey, Ankara, will host the NATO Leaders’ Summit of member states on July 7–8.