Michael Schöllhorn, CEO of Airbus Space and Defence, emphasizes the urgent need for Europe to enhance its space technology and defense capabilities. He warns that excessive bureaucracy and grand plans without action could hinder progress. The European Commission's Space Shield initiative aims to bolster defense by 2030, but Schöllhorn highlights the gap in investment compared to the US. He remains optimistic about Europe's potential for a 'quantum leap' in capabilities if practical definitions and actions are prioritized.