Anders Fogh Rasmussen, the former Danish Prime Minister and NATO Secretary-General, has emphasized the urgent need for European nations to adapt their economies to a wartime production model to effectively counter potential aggression from Russia. He argues that this shift is necessary due to the current weakness of the Western world's armed forces, which he attributes to inadequate military equipment and insufficient production capabilities. According to Rasmussen, a long list of needs exists, particularly in increasing manufacturing capacity for strategic military technology that Europe has historically relied on the US for.

Rasmussen highlights the importance of redirecting European automotive manufacturers to convert surplus manufacturing capabilities towards military production, reminiscent of the United States' rapid transition to militarization during World War II in 1941. He stresses that such a transition enabled the US to swiftly produce tanks, aircraft, ships, and ammunition within a matter of months, which played a critical role in bolstering its military readiness. This historical precedent serves as a model for European countries to follow in enhancing their defensive capabilities.

The call for a wartime economy underscores a broader recognition within Europe of the growing security threats posed by Russia, especially in light of recent geopolitical tensions and conflicts. Transitioning to military production not only aims to reinforce national defense but also to ensure Europe can achieve self-sufficiency in military technology, thereby reducing dependency on outside nations. This strategy could reshape the European defense landscape significantly as countries prepare for future challenges in international security.