Ankara: The European Investment Bank (EIB) has committed £3 billion ($3.42 billion) in financing to Airbus to support research and development in Europe's aerospace sector, the bank announced on Monday. The package, noted as the largest corporate financing envelope ever approved by the EIB, aims to strengthen Europe's industrial base, technological sovereignty, and competitiveness in aerospace innovation.

According to Anadolu Agency, the first £1 billion loan under the package was signed in Brussels. This loan will support Airbus' investments in advanced technologies and integrated systems for commercial aviation, as well as security and defense systems. EIB President Nadia Calvino stated that the package illustrates Europe's capability to act decisively to support its industrial leaders and enhance its position in a shifting geopolitical environment.

The financing will back Airbus' research and development projects through 2030 across France, Germany, and Spain. Airbus Chief Financial Officer Thomas Toepfer highlighted that the financing would bolster the company's commercial and defense research while sustaining long-term investment in aerospace innovation.

The EIB indicated that the package includes long maturities and flexible terms to provide predictable financing for major industrial programs under its TechEU initiative. This initiative seeks to accelerate investment in critical technologies and strengthen the EU's industrial competitiveness. Airbus is recognized as one of Europe's leading aerospace companies, operating in commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense, security, and space systems.