In 2025, Spain officially reached the level of military spending set by NATO standards: 2% of gross domestic product is now allocated to defense. This marks a significant step for the country, which just ten years ago devoted less than 1% of its GDP to this purpose.
Previously, the government planned to reach this target only by 2029, but accelerated investment in the defense sector made it possible to achieve this goal four years ahead of schedule. In 2024, military spending accounted for 1.4% of GDP, but it has now risen to €33.1 billion — €10.5 billion more than the previous year.
This decision has sparked lively debate both within the governing coalition and among parliamentary allies. Some political groups have voiced concerns that the increased defense budget could affect funding for social programs. Nevertheless, the government emphasizes that fulfilling its NATO commitments strengthens Spain’s international standing and reaffirms its status as a reliable partner within the alliance.
The issue of military spending became especially relevant ahead of the NATO summit in La Haya, where new standards for member states were discussed. Amid Donald Trump’s return to the White House and his calls to raise defense budgets to 3% or even 5% of GDP, Spain has taken a cautious stance. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that the country does not intend to exceed the established 2% level, despite pressure from some alliance partners.
During negotiations with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, an agreement was reached that Spain would be granted a certain flexibility regarding further increases in defense spending. The final assessment of the fulfillment of these new commitments will be carried out in 2029.
The government notes that the additional investments are aimed not only at strengthening defense capabilities, but also at developing high-tech industries. As part of the new industrial and technological plan for the security and defense sector, more than 10 billion euros have been allocated. Special attention is given to areas such as artificial intelligence, big data, robotics, quantum and information technologies, space, biotechnology, as well as new production and energy methods.
According to representatives of the Ministry of Defense, the development of these technologies will not only enhance security but also create new jobs and strengthen the position of Spanish industry in the international market.
At the same time, the opposition continues to criticize the government for increasing military spending. The leader of the Partido Popular, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, insists that Spain should have agreed to a higher level of investment in line with NATO’s new requirements. However, Sánchez’s cabinet emphasizes that meeting current commitments is fully in line with the interests of the country and the alliance.
Overall, reaching the target level of military spending has become a significant event for Spain. This decision has strengthened the country’s position in international organizations and opened up new opportunities for the development of the national defense industry and dual-use technologies.
