Defence industry continues to grow
ASD’s annual Facts and Figures Report offers insight into the performance, trends, and challenges facing Europe’s most strategic industry sectors. These sectors are not only vital to our economy. They are the foundation of Europe’s sovereignty, sustainability, and security.
The Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD) represents over 4,000 companies across 21 European countries and is the leading voice for the European aerospace, security and defence industries. The organisation works closely with policymakers and institutions to foster a secure and innovative industry ecosystem in Europe. In 2025 Micael Johansson became the new President and Chairman of the ASD Board.
The Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD) has published its annual Facts and Figures Report, providing a comprehensive overview of the European industrial ecosystem’s performance in 2024.
The new data confirm that Europe’s industrial ecosystem continued its strong growth trajectory in 2024 and direct employment climbing to 1,103,000 — the highest level ever recorded. The industries supported nearly 4.2 million jobs and €779bn in economic activity across Europe.
The defence sector grew by 13.8%, reflecting Europe’s accelerated effort to strengthen its defence preparedness and deterrence while continuing to support Ukraine.
“Our sectors are not only vital to Europe’s economy. They are first and foremost essential for Europe’s security, connectivity, sustainability ambitions – ultimately for its sovereignty and position on the global stage amid a quickly shifting and increasingly unpredictable geopolitical and technological landscape.”