EU picks German General André Denk to lead European Defense Agency

Bruxells – Member states appointed André Denk as the new chief executive of the European Defense Agency (EDA) upon the recommendation of the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas. His appointment, formalized yesterday (May 6), breaks with the tradition of diplomats and politicians leading the agency, putting a military man at its helm for the first time.

“With war at our borders and hybrid threats across the Union, the EDA’s work to develop joint military capabilities and boost innovation in the defense sector has never been more important,” Kallas said. “Under General Denk’s leadership, the Agency will play a key role in ensuring Europe’s readiness for the challenges ahead.” On the Agency he will now lead, André Denk said, “The European Defense Agency is uniquely positioned to support Member States across the entire capability development cycle and beyond. The Agency brings together the expertise, networks, and insight needed to strengthen military cooperation, innovate, and support Europe’s defense industry.”

Denk previously served as deputy director general of the EDA from February 2023. In this role, he led activities for the joint procurement of 155 mm ammunition to support Ukraine and replenish member states’ stockpiles. Before joining the agency, he was the logistics director of the EU Military Staff and previously commander of the Joint School of Logistics in Germany.

Throughout his military career, he undertook many international deployments under the European Union, United Nations, and NATO mandates – including in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Afghanistan, and as chief of staff of the EU Training Mission in Mali. Born in Rotthalmunster, Bavaria, in 1967, Denk joined the German armed forces in 1986. In addition to German, he is fluent in English, French, Serbian, and Croatian.

The general will head an agency that has undergone a profound change in recent years, transforming into a procurement center with greater powers in identifying gaps in national armies. In addition to focusing attention on preparing for the crises that are shaking the current international environment, the choice of a German military man to lead the EDA could improve relations between the Brussels-based organization and the German government, which has already been skeptical about entrusting the EDA with control of military matters, pushing for joint purchases of weapons to be managed by a designated “lead nation,” rather than by the agency.

I am glad to appoint General André Denk as Chief Executive of @EUDefenceAgency.

The agency’s role in developing joint military capabilities and driving innovation is more crucial than ever.

General Denk’s leadership will be a real asset.
I look forward to our work together. pic.twitter.com/HZsG2GC4LD

– Kaja Kallas (@kajakallas) May 5, 2025