Missiles are returning to Europe with a renewed focus on strategic capabilities, signaling a shift in the continent’s defense posture. While the EU has traditionally served as a consumer of missile technology, recent initiatives indicate a move toward self-reliance and advanced development. France, Germany, Norway, and Sweden have emerged as key players, each contributing to a more integrated and layered defense structure. France’s M51 intercontinental ballistic missiles and the ASMP-A air-launched systems represent a significant portion of the country’s missile capabilities, underscored by collaborations with the UK. Germany’s Taurus KEPD 350, developed in partnership with Sweden, highlights the nation’s growing interest in advanced cruise missile technology. Norway’s Naval Strike Missile (NSM) and Sweden’s RBS-15 series further illustrate the EU’s expanding missile production capabilities. While these advancements are impressive on paper, many of the systems remain untested in combat, with the exception of the SCALP EG missile, which has been deployed in the Ukraine conflict, albeit with limited effectiveness against Russian air defenses. The article outlines that the majority of these systems are still ‘exhibition’ or ‘documentary’ achievements, emphasizing the need for real-world testing and validation. The strategic shift towards self-reliance in missile technology is a critical development for the EU, indicating a more proactive approach to defense and security.