France's Naval Power Expansion
French President Emmanuel Macron revealed on Sunday that France will construct a new aircraft carrier capable of carrying 30 fighter jets and accommodating 2,000 sailors. Speaking to French troops stationed in Abu Dhabi, Macron emphasized the strategic importance of this decision.
"In an age of predators, we must be strong in order to be feared, and especially strong at sea. This is why, in line with the last two military programming laws, and after a thorough and careful review, I have decided to equip France with a new aircraft carrier. The decision to launch the construction of this very large-scale program was taken this week," Macron stated.
Technical Specifications and Timeline
The new vessel is expected to be operational by 2038, taking over from the aging Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier that entered service in 2001. With a displacement of approximately 78,000 tons and a length of 310 meters, it will be significantly larger than its predecessor, which measures 42,000 tons and 261 meters.
While still smaller than the world's largest warship, the USS Gerald Ford (over 100,000 tons and 334 meters), France's new carrier will maintain nuclear propulsion and be equipped with French Rafale M fighter jets.
Economic and Strategic Implications
Macron highlighted that the project will support hundreds of suppliers, predominantly small- and medium-sized businesses. "I will personally guarantee this commitment in support of our companies, and I will visit the shipyard next February to meet them," he assured.
According to the French defense ministry, the new carrier will enable heavily armed, long-range deployments with rapid response capabilities, operating repeatedly for extended periods.
Financial Context
In 2023, former defense minister Sébastien Lecornu estimated the cost of a new aircraft carrier at about 10 billion euros ($11.7 billion). Macron has also announced 6.5 billion euros ($7.6 billion) in additional military spending over the next two years, with plans to increase defense expenditure to 64 billion euros by 2027.
France currently maintains the second-largest military in the European Union, with approximately 200,000 active personnel and over 40,000 reservists. The country aims to expand its reservist force to 80,000 by 2030.
