Adapting the Battlegroups

The ability to respond early and forcefully to external conflicts and crises is a declared strategic priority for the EU. Among the most prominent instruments in the EU’s rapid response toolbox are the EU Battlegroups (EUBGs), each consisting of 1,500- 2,000 soldiers centred on a core infantry battalion.

While the EUBGs are regularly criticised for having never been deployed, the fact remains that they are an EU-own instrument specifically tailored to the Union’s approach to crisis management. As such, just like other current external policy instruments, they may need to be adapted on the basis of changing needs, as well as lessons learned.