Even if funds are found for defense, Europe faces other shortages. With the escalation of military tensions in the Middle East last weekend, the pillar could not but open today with a military comment. Despite the billions pledged by the EU for rearmament, European military strengthening risks failure. This is the main conclusion of a study by the German Institute for World Economics (IfW) and Bruegel. It won’t happen unless costs are reduced through increased competition among arms manufacturers and European suppliers. Furthermore, modernizing armed forces and emphasizing new technologies are essential. Researchers estimate that production of battle tanks and infantry vehicles must increase up to six times to keep pace with Russia’s rearmament rate. The production of missile systems in Europe remains low, and technological dependence on the US is high. Common orders for certain weapon systems from the most cost-effective supplier in the European market would reduce costs. They also emphasize greater focus on innovation as a necessary condition for achieving European defense goals. Equipment plans must now focus more on new technologies proven effective in Ukraine. Increasing production capacity, such as drones or unmanned vehicles, is insufficient. Creating internal cloud computing and artificial intelligence centers is also important. Simultaneously, European investments in defense research and development must increase. With only €13 billion, European states invest only a fraction of the $145 billion the US spends on military R&D. A European innovation agency based on the US DARPA model could change this. Meanwhile, housing issues are expected to worsen due to rising tensions. Stournaras proposes a broader national strategic plan to balance property demand across the country. Efforts to restrict short-term rentals have fallen short, with listings increasing despite government measures. In Piraeus, the historic Keranis building is set for revitalization into luxury apartments by Canada’s Mercan Group. Lastly, American influence alone may not suffice to secure Eastern Mediterranean energy projects amid regional disputes.