France and Germany are making the case for the European Union's most ambitious defense plan in nearly two decades.
EU defense ministers are searching for a coherent strategy that their leaders can support at a summit in December. The plan involves higher spending on military missions, and joint development of certain types of aircraft. It also features expanded peacekeeping operations, and better defenses against state-sponsored hackers.
France and Germany aim to win over sceptical eastern members and avoid a showdown with Britain over its military future outside the bloc.