France to Build New Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carrier
French President Emmanuel Macron revealed on Sunday that France will construct a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The announcement was made during a Christmas event at a French military base in the United Arab Emirates.
"In times of aggression, we must be strong to be feared. I have decided to equip France with a new aircraft carrier," Macron stated, as reported by French media.
The new vessel will have a displacement of approximately 80,000 tons, making it nearly twice as heavy as the current French carrier, the Charles de Gaulle. It will measure 310 meters in length and 85 meters in width.
Defence Minister Catherine Vautrin confirmed on X that the carrier is projected to be operational starting in 2038. The construction is estimated to cost up to €10 million ($11.7 million).
France remains the only nation other than the United States to operate a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The Charles de Gaulle entered service in 2001.
