### France's Maritime Ambitions: Macron Unveils Plans for a New Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carrier French President Emmanuel Macron has officially announced the initiation of a significant military project aimed at replacing the aging Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier with a new nuclear-powered vessel. This decision underscores France's commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities amid evolving global security challenges. The new aircraft carrier, part of the Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération (PANG) program, is expected to be operational by 2038 and will be the largest warship in Europe, with a projected cost of approximately €10 billion ($11.7 billion) [https://www.euronews.com/2025/12/22/france-to-build-new-nuclear-carrier-replacing-flagship-charles-de-gaulle]. ### Structure of the Announcement and Its Implications 1. **Project Overview**: Macron's announcement includes the construction of a 78,000-tonne nuclear carrier capable of carrying 30 fighter jets and accommodating around 2,000 sailors. The new vessel will replace the Charles de Gaulle, which has been in service since 2001 [https://www.firstpost.com/world/france-will-replace-charles-de-gaulle-ship-with-new-carrier-macron-tells-gulf-troops-13962052.html]. 2. **Strategic Importance**: The decision to build the new carrier is framed as a response to increasing global security threats and the need for France to maintain a robust naval presence. Macron emphasized that strong naval capabilities are essential "in an age of predators" [https://thereport.live/sci-tech/france-plans-new-aircraft-carrier-amid-boost-in-defense-spending/38640]. 3. **Economic Impact**: The project is expected to support around 800 firms, primarily small and medium-sized enterprises, contributing to the French economy and defense industry. Macron has pledged personal oversight of the project, including a visit to the shipyard [https://www.marineinsight.com/shipping-news/france-plans-to-build-europes-largest-warship-to-replace-charles-de-gaulle]. 4. **Defense Spending Increase**: Alongside the aircraft carrier project, Macron announced an additional €6.5 billion in defense spending over the next two years, with total military expenditure projected to reach €64 billion by 2027, doubling the level when he took office in 2017 [https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/macron-greenlights-construction-of-frances-next-generation-aircraft-carrier]. ### Supporting Data and Evidence - **Carrier Specifications**: - **Displacement**: 78,000 tons - **Length**: 310 meters - **Aircraft Capacity**: 30 fighter jets - **Operational Date**: Expected by 2038 - **Cost**: Approximately €10 billion ($11.7 billion) [https://www.zona-militar.com/en/2025/12/22/the-construction-of-the-french-navys-new-pa-ng-nuclear-aircraft-carrier-has-been-given-the-green-light]. - **Defense Budget**: - **Current Military Expenditure**: €64 billion projected by 2027 - **Increase from 2017**: Doubling of military budget since Macron's presidency began [https://www.firstpost.com/world/france-will-replace-charles-de-gaulle-ship-with-new-carrier-macron-tells-gulf-troops-13962052.html]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Leap for France's Naval Power In summary, **France's decision to construct a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier represents a pivotal moment in its military strategy**. The initiative aims to bolster France's maritime capabilities in response to global security dynamics while also stimulating the national economy through defense spending. The key points are: 1. **Replacement of Charles de Gaulle**: The new carrier will succeed the aging flagship, enhancing operational capabilities. 2. **Strategic Necessity**: The project is a direct response to increasing global threats, emphasizing the importance of naval power. 3. **Economic Benefits**: The initiative will support numerous firms and contribute to the defense sector. 4. **Increased Defense Spending**: A significant boost in military budget reflects France's commitment to maintaining a strong defense posture. This comprehensive approach not only aims to modernize France's naval fleet but also reinforces its position as a leading maritime power in Europe [https://www.euronews.com/2025/12/22/france-to-build-new-nuclear-carrier-replacing-flagship-charles-de-gaulle].