BRUSSELS, March 4 (Reuters) - European Commission

President Ursula von der Leyen said in a letter to EU member

states on Tuesday that 150 billion euros ($157.67 billion) in

new loans for defence investments will be backed by the EU's

budget.

Von der Leyen has announced new EU plans to strengthen

Europe's defence industry and increase military capabilities

could mobilize close to 800 billion euros.

($1 = 0.9514 euros)