This paper begins with the observation that the top-down model of defence
cooperation adopted for the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) of the
European Union seems to be in a crisis. It then asks if there are alternative models
available, arguing that one is represented by smaller, bottom-up initiatives such as the
European Air Transport Command (EATC). By looking at the EATC, this paper shows
that this type of initiatives provide a positive impact on the CSDP because they
improve the overall level of European defence capabilities and because they show
that it is possible for European countries to develop defence cooperation initiatives
that are both efficient and effective. The EATC’s small-scale sectoral cooperation
presents several advantages, the main ones being an easier decision-making process
and a higher possible level of ambition, but on the other hand such a model restricts
both the number of countries and the size of the impact that it can have. By identifying
the key characteristics of the EATC model, this paper tries to determine the areas
where the EATC could expand, and those where its business model could be
successfully replicated. It argues that the best candidates are domains that combine
constancy of use and low political sensibility, such as training or surveillance
