EMS@C-LEVEL
As Forbes, Entrepreneur, Fast Company and SCOOP writer, Philip Stoten, continues to talk to EMS (Electronic Manufacturing Services) executives he learns more about their individual and collective experiences and their expectations for their own businesses and for the entire electronic manufacturing industry.
EMS@C-LEVEL
Inside IPC: Europe is Racing to Build Defense Autonomy with Alison James
A remarkable transformation is sweeping through European defense policy, creating new opportunities and challenges for the electronics industry. In this revealing conversation with Alison James, Senior Director Europe, Government Relations at IPC, we explore the European Union's dramatic shift in defense strategy, which she describes as a genuine "sea change" in approach.
The EU has moved with unprecedented speed to modify debt ceiling rules, creating essential "fiscal space" for member states to increase defense investments. This comes alongside proposals for simplification and joint procurement programs expected by June - lightning fast by European standards. What's driving this urgency? Growing recognition of critical vulnerabilities in Europe's electronics supply chain at a time when technology increasingly determines military capability.
IPC's timely new report reveals that electronics will comprise around 25% of defense systems' value by 2035. This data-rich study highlights why Europe must strengthen its electronics industrial base to achieve even modest autonomy in defense production. The goal isn't complete manufacturing independence but establishing what Alison calls a "minimum autonomy threshold" to address the most critical vulnerabilities.
For electronics manufacturers, particularly EMS companies, many deriving 10-30% of business from defense contracts, these developments present significant opportunities alongside challenges. While European companies maintain strong relationships with American partners, uncertainty around tariffs creates planning anxiety. As Alison astutely notes, "Businesses need certainty," something in short supply during this geopolitical realignment.
Looking ahead, IPC continues building coalitions across the European electronics ecosystem to advocate with one voice for policies supporting technological sovereignty. Understanding the "silicon system" beneath emerging technologies like AI becomes increasingly crucial as Europe reconsiders its place in the global technology landscape. Join us for this illuminating discussion on how defense priorities are reshaping the electronics industry's future.
EMS@C-Level Live at APEX is sponsored by global inspection leaders Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Creative Electron (https://creativeelectron.com)
EMS@C-Level is sponsored by global inspection leaders Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Creative Electron (https://creativeelectron.com)
You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.