Spain is calling for investment in defense and technology to safeguard its strategic autonomy and boost R&D&I

 

During the second day of Spain Investors DayGovernment and private sector representatives have agreed on the urgent need to invest in security to guarantee economic and political stability. This comes in a context marked by war in [location missing]. Ucrania and new global tensions, experts from INDRA Group, CEOE, IBM y GSK España They have analyzed how defense, cybersecurity, and biosecurity are fundamental pillars for national sovereignty.

 

In an international context defined by geopolitical uncertainty, España It seeks to consolidate its position as a key player in collective defense. The round table "Investment Opportunities in Defense, Cybersecurity and Biosecurity in Spain," moderated by Ricardo de Querol (director of Cinco Días and deputy director of economic information of El País), has served as a stage to reaffirm the need for technological modernization and international cooperation.

 

Defense as a tool for deterrence and stability

 

The Minister of Defense, Margarita RoblesHe has been emphatic in defending the increase in military spending. "We believe in peace and international law, and that's why we must invest in defense.", he pointed out, urging the Unión Europea to move towards a strategic autonomy real without complexes.

 

Robles has warned about the chronic nature of the war in Ucrania, which is heading into its fourth year, and has introduced new threats to sovereignty into the debate, citing the possibility that Estados Unidos violates international law in relation to GroenlandiaFor the minister, providing the Armed Forces with resources is not an option, but a deterrent necessity.

 

The industrial impact: a driving force of the economy

 

From a business perspective, Ángel Escribano, CEO of INDRA Group, has stressed that "Manufacturing is the most critical part" in an environment where tariffs and trade restrictions are resurfacing. Escribano He emphasized that the national industry is "perfectly capable" of leading the sector, avoiding the vulnerability that comes with depending on third countries.

 

For its part, Iñigo Fernández de Mesa, VP CEOE, has provided data that demonstrates the economic weight of the security and defense industry, highlighting its drag effect on dual technology sectors and the importance of the internationalization of Spanish companies.

 

Economic Indicator	Key Fact of the Defense Sector
employment generated	280.000 jobs (direct and indirect)
Investment in R&D&i	It accounts for 30% of the national total.
Return on investment	For every €1 invested, €2,2 is generated.
Business structure	Mixed ecosystem of large companies and SMEs

 

Fernández de Mesa He emphasized that in this industry there is room for both large corporations and SMEs, which are essential, for example, in the production chain of land vehicles.

 

Cybersecurity and Health: the new frontiers of national security

 

Security is no longer limited to the traditional military sphere. Isabel Gómez Cagigas, General Manager Cybersecurity Services EMEA IBM, has focused on human capital: "Talent and training will be key to maintaining competitiveness."The directive has called for "absolute generosity" and cross-sector partnerships to develop advanced technological capabilities.

 

Finally, Cristina Henríquez de Luna, president and CEO of GSK España, has introduced the concept of health security as equivalent to national security. He has advocated for protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring a resilient healthcare system, betting on innovation to anticipate future biological threats.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about Defense Investment

 

What economic return does investing in defense in Spain offer?
According to data provided by the CEOEThe sector offers high profitability: for every euro invested, 2,2 euros are generated in the economy. Furthermore, this industry is responsible for approximately 30% of total R&D investment in the country.

 

Why is health considered a matter of national security?
experts like Cristina Henríquez de Luna (GSK EspañaThey argue that strategic autonomy must include healthcare response capacity. Protecting health infrastructure and ensuring medical supplies are vital for the country's resilience to biological threats or pandemics.

 

What is the main industrial challenge according to INDRA Group?
The biggest challenge is domestic manufacturing capacity ("manufacturing is the most critical part") to avoid external dependencies at a time of soaring tariffs and global restrictions. The goal is for Spanish industry to lead technological development and production.