It’s called PESCO. It stands for the Permanent Structured Co-Operation and is a treaty among EU nations providing a framework for a mutual defense that many EU superstate proponents have been pushing for a long time. Technically, it is not a European army, per se, but many consider it a necessary first step as it requires each country to strengthen its military assets and defense capabilities and cooperate if needed. There are plans for enhanced joint training, streamlining of cross-border military
operations, and medical operations. It establishes a defense fund for procurement of weapons and the development of “rapid reaction forces,” armed with tanks and drones. The initial funding will include a 5 billion-euro ($5.83 billion dollar) defense fund. PESCO allows for integrated armed forces, a combined pool of Defense spending, and the creation of a joint command headquarters. European Union Foreign Affairs Chief Federica Mogherini said the pact will focus not just on military cooperation, but also on cyber-security. READ MORE
