Rafale Fighter Jets: Macron Plans Increased Orders
President Emmanuel Macron announced on Tuesday France’s plans to boost orders for Rafale fighter jets, stressing the importance of national defense to prevent potential conflicts. Speaking at a military base in Luxeuil-les-Bains, Macron made it clear that in order to avoid war, the country must prepare itself militarily.
This decision comes as European nations, France included, are ramping up defense budgets and weapon production against a backdrop of a possible withdrawal of U.S. security support and increasing Russian threats. Macron stated, “We will increase and accelerate the Rafale orders,” highlighting the benefits for the French air and space force from acquiring additional aircraft manufactured by Dassault Aviation.
Defense Strategy Amid Growing Threats
Macron indicated that further investment decisions would be announced in the coming weeks, responding to what he termed the “acceleration of events” in global security. He emphasized the necessity for France and Europe to continually fortify their defenses, saying, “No one can predict what will happen in the coming months and years. My desire is for us to be ready, to be protected.”
Currently, the French Air Force operates 108 Rafale jets, with an additional 41 belonging to the navy. Prior to Macron’s announcement, there were plans to acquire 56 more jets, but Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu has now expressed the need to purchase 30 additional Rafale aircraft.
Investment in Military Infrastructure
Macron revealed that by 2035, the Luxeuil-les-Bains base will be the first to receive the latest version of the Rafale, as well as a new hypersonic nuclear missile. To facilitate this upgrade, the French government intends to invest approximately 1.5 billion euros (around $1.6 billion) to adapt the base facilities.
According to the Elysee Palace, this airbase plays a critical role in safeguarding the interests of both the NATO alliance and wider international security. Macron reiterated France’s commitment to enhancing its nuclear deterrent capabilities, stating the nation will “continue to strengthen each of its components.” France and the UK are currently the only European countries with nuclear arsenals.
Strengthening European Defense Collaboration
Earlier in March, Macron indicated his intention to extend France’s nuclear deterrent capabilities to its European partners. This statement reflects a growing sentiment among EU nations to enhance their collective defense strategies in response to shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Later on the same day as his Rafale announcement, Macron was scheduled to visit Berlin for talks with outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz. These discussions are expected to focus on deepening Franco-German defense collaboration amid rising security concerns across Europe.
