Summary
As Europe pushes to enhance its defence capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions, a significant talent shortage looms over the industry. In 2024, defence spending in the region surged to over €290 billion, with aspirations to further strengthen military assets. However, the supply of skilled professionals is critically lagging behind, with projections indicating a potential shortfall of nearly 4 million tech professionals by 2027. This growing gap threatens the effectiveness and modernisation of the defence sector, which is expected to grow its workforce substantially by 2030.
Key Points
- European defence spending increased by over 10% in 2024, signalling a shift towards greater autonomy in global security.
- The industry anticipates a growth in direct jobs from 1 million to 1.46 million by 2030.
- A substantial tech talent gap of up to 3.9 million professionals could emerge by 2027, exacerbated by competition for critical skills.
- Absenteeism due to retirement is a pressing concern, with approximately 25% of defence engineers nearing retirement age.
- Addressing the talent crisis requires a shift in workforce strategy, including redefinition of talent sources and upskilling programmes.
Why should I read this?
If you care about the ever-evolving landscape of defence and security in Europe, then this article is a must-read. It highlights a looming crisis that could impact not just the industry but also the safety and security of the region as a whole. Understanding these dynamics can give you insights into future trends and the essential workforce strategies that need to be tackled. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you—dive in and get clued up!