In a deteriorating security environment in which disinformation, cyberattacks, and instrumentalised migration are an everyday occurrence, the EU Hybrid Rapid Response Teams will help to prepare against and counter hybrid threats. They will provide tailored assistance to member states, Common Security and Defence Policy missions and operations, and partner countries. The teams will be composed of experts from member states and EU institutions who will go on short-term missions to countries that should request assistance.

The establishment of the HRRT, announced in the Strategic Compass, was one of Poland's priorities as regards the issue of countering hybrid threats within the EU. Similar teams are already operating within NATO. Setting up the HRRT will broaden the scope of available options of the EU’s response to hybrid attacks. It will also be a political signal of solidarity between the EU member states in the face of a new type of challenges.