STUDY OF NEW COMPLEX MODELS OF INTERNATIONAL INDUSTRIAL COLLABORATION, STAKEHOLDERS, AND SELECTION MECHANISMS WITHIN INNOVATIVE EUROPEAN DEFENSE PROGRAMS: EPW CASE STUDY

This thesis investigates new models of international industrial collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and selection mechanisms within innovative European defense programs, primarily focusing on the European Protected Waveform project funded by the European Defence Fund. The study opens by tracing the historical evolution of European defense policies and institutional frameworks, detailing the formation of NATO, the Western European Union, and the eventual establishment of the Common Security and Defence Policy. Emphasis is placed on contemporary collaborative defense initiatives such as Permanent Structured Cooperation, the European Defence Agency, and the EDF, exploring their roles in advancing technological capabilities, operational efficiency, and fostering cross-border partnerships within the European Union. The EPW project is then examined as a case study to illustrate its strategic and technological objectives within the EDF framework. This analysis contextualizes the EPW initiative considering advancements in satellite communications and the broader goal of strengthening European defense autonomy. The study also delves into the project's structure, detailing its development phases, funding mechanisms, and success criteria. The final section of the thesis explores technological trends and challenges in European defense R&D, particularly in satellite communications. It highlights the roles of major industry players like Thales Alenia Space in supporting the EU's strategic independence. Conducted at Thales Alenia Space following an internship, this research benefits from a direct, hands-on understanding of the sector’s intricacies. Overall, this thesis offers a comprehensive overview of the European defense sector, identifying key drivers for resilience, innovation, and cooperation across EU member states in defense communications technology.