The debt crisis has dealt a severe blow to the European project. But it may also prompt more European defense cooperation, as debt-ridden governments are getting serious about pooling and sharing their military capabilities.

The European debt crisis is forcing governments to cut their budgets. Daniel Möckli argues that the net effect of this crisis will be a strategic weakening of Europe. But he also points out that the current age of austerity may turn into an opportunity for more defence cooperation in Europe. Governments are beginning to implement ‘smart defence strategies’; the pooling and sharing of their military capabilities.