Europe’s ‘tech sovereignty’ ambitions carry security risks, military warns
Financial Times
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Europe’s push for “tech sovereignty” is raising alarms among military officials who warn of potential security risks tied to reducing dependence on US technology. The initiative aims to reduce Europe’s reliance on American tech companies by fostering本地 innovation and creating a more self-sufficient digital ecosystem. However, the military has expressed skepticism about the feasibility and safety of this approach, highlighting concerns over cybersecurity vulnerabilities, supply chain disruptions, and the potential for increased tensions with global tech powers.
The European Commission and other policymakers argue that achieving tech sovereignty is critical to protecting EU interests and ensuring technological independence in key sectors like artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and quantum computing. They believe this shift could also strengthen Europe’s negotiating position on the global stage. However, military leaders caution that rushing to decouple from US technology without a robust strategy could expose European nations to greater risks, particularly in areas like cyber defense and data protection.
The debate comes amid growing competition between the US, China, and other global powers over technological dominance. While Europe aims to carve out its own role in this landscape, critics worry that its fragmented approach and lack of unified policies may hinder progress. Analysts also point out that fostering本地 tech industries could be costly and time-consuming, potentially delaying innovation and weakening Europe’s competitiveness on the global market.
From a business perspective, these developments have significant implications for companies operating in Europe. Businesses reliant on US technology may face increased costs or regulatory hurdles as Europe seeks to develop its own alternatives. Meanwhile, European startups and tech firms could benefit from new opportunities to fill gaps in本地 innovation, but they will need substantial investment and support to compete with established global players.
Ultimately, while Europe’s push for tech sovereignty aims to enhance security and economic autonomy, it also carries risks that could impact both
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Originally published on Financial Times on 2/24/2026