Nuno Melo: SAFE tranche still in 2026 if TdC validates

The Portuguese Minister of National Defense announced that the European Commission has signed the SAFE loan agreement for Portugal, pending validation by the Court of Auditors. Nuno Melo, speaking in Athens, expressed hope that the first tranche of the loan would be available by year-end. The agreement, signed by various parties, allows Portugal to mobilize €5.84 billion in EU funding for defense investments, including the purchase of military equipment. The total investment under SAFE is significant, with plans for new frigates and other military enhancements.