French President Emmanuel Macron has signaled a potential expansion of France’s nuclear deterrence to its European partners in a significant shift in European security strategy. This marks a bold step in France’s strategic vision as Europe grapples with uncertainties over U.S. military commitments.
Macron stated that France is open to extending its nuclear protection to allies, while cautioning that Europe must prepare for the possibility that the US may not “remain by our side” in the Ukraine-Russia war. This comes as EU leaders push for greater security autonomy amid uncertainty over Washington’s military and financial support for Ukraine.
France has long championed strategic autonomy, resisting dependency on external defense programs. The country’s pursuit of defense independence dates back to the late 1970s when France was part of a multinational fighter jet development program but eventually pursued its own fighter jet development program, resulting in the creation of the Rafale.
The Rafale is designed and manufactured almost entirely by France, involving key domestic defense contractors. This allows France to maintain control over its defense capabilities and sovereignty in military manufacturing. France’s commitment to independent defense development continued with the launch of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program in 2017, forming a trilateral effort to develop a next-generation fighter jet by the 2030s.
Macron’s nuclear deterrence proposition highlights France’s growing leadership in European security. As geopolitical uncertainties persist, France’s strategic autonomy offers a model for Europe to strengthen its defense capabilities and reduce dependence on external powers.
Source: https://www.eurasiantimes.com/frances-pursuit-of-sovereignty-how-paris-defied-the-f-35-program