The Defence and Security Procurement Act: a path to operational readiness

The Defence and Security Procurement Act: a path to operational readiness
  • Publication
  • 20 Apr 2026

Europe's defence goals are advancing faster than the ability to convert increased budgets into real operational capabilities. This challenge partly stems from the regulatory framework governing defence procurement of personnel and resources: the Defence and Security Procurement Act.

Our publication reveals that the Act's scope can indeed bridge the gap to operational readiness. The challenge lies not in the rules' flexibility but in how the current legal framework is interpreted and applied.

We also explore how varying international interpretations of procurement rules create fragmentation. This fragmentation obstructs cross-border collaboration, economies of scale, and interoperability across Europe. By adopting a more consistent and uniform approach to the existing legal framework, we can bolster the European defence industrial base. This not only enhances efficiency but also boosts security of supply.  

Download the publication (PDF)

Closing the readiness gap: Making defence procurement fit for operational reality

(PDF of 572.05KB)

Questions? Feel free to reach out to us:

Daniel de Jager

Client Lead Partner, Ministerie van Defensie, PwC Netherlands

+31 (0)65 575 87 57

Email

Ilse Meier

Director Consulting, PwC Netherlands

+31 (0)61 261 73 60

Email

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