External meeting of the Working group on defence

Hosted in Cartagena, this meeting will explore the contribution of SMEs to the European defence sector, particularly in the fields of innovative technologies, logistics and infrastructure while addressing the challenges they face in accessing defence markets, funding and public procurement. The discussion will also reflect on how SME needs can be better integrated into EU defence policies. As a major naval and industrial hub in the Mediterranean, Cartagena provides a particularly relevant setting for this exchange, highlighting the role of regional ecosystems and initiatives such as the CAETRA programme in supporting dual-use technologies, innovation and Europe’s industrial competitiveness.