The role of fusion technology in the European fusion development strategy is outlined. The main thrust of the present fusion technology programme is responding to development needs of the Next European Torus. A smaller, but important and growing R&D effort is dealing with problems specific to the Demonstration, or Fusion Power, Reactor.The part of the programme falling under the somewhat arbitrarily defined category of “fusion nuclear technology” is reviewed and an outlook to future activities is given.The review includes tritium technology, blanket technology and breeder materials development, technology and materials for the protection of the first wall and of other plasma facing components, remote handling technology, and safety and environmental impact studies. A few reflections are offered on the future long-term developments in fusion technology.