Low DAMP, Germany (Reuters) -Two European governments have agreed to buy underwater drones for military use, their German manufacturer told Reuters, as countries in the region ramp up defence spending to address what they say is an increased Russian threat.

Earlier this year, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledged to build Europe’s strongest army – a tall order for a country whose military has undergone years of neglect.

The goal for this European Commission, whose mandate ends in 2029, is to "set up an EU-wide Military Mobility Area by the end of 2027 as a first step toward progressively achieving a 'Military Schengen' in regulatory, infrastructure and capabilities dimensions."

Helping Ukraine defeat Russia is a cheaper prospect for Europe than giving into the Kremlin’s concessions, according to a new study titled “Europe’s Choice” out of Norway.

The plan, to improve troop and weapon transport and support defense technology startups comes amid heightened tensions with Russia.

Europe’s equivalent of NASA is seeking €22 billion ($25.5 billion) from its member states for the next three years, a 36% increase from its previous budget, as nations expand their military presence in space.

France is the latest in a line of European countries where the narrative on military service appears to have shifted since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. France will introduce voluntary conscription from next summer, President Emmanuel Macron has announced.