On February 4th, Dutch Defense Minister Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert and German Defense Minister Ursula von der Leyen signed a new deal paving the way for the full integration of their countries’ naval units. When this agreement enters into force, it will push Germany and the Netherlands further towards a pioneering model for European defense cooperation. While these are perhaps small steps in the bigger picture, both countries are making an effort in consciously maintaining, expanding or gaining some of their military capabilities. Is this the way forward for Europe? [...]