Macron announces the construction of a new French aircraft carrier to replace the Charles de Gaulle
In a strategic move aimed at bolstering French military dominance and ensuring its continued naval supremacy for decades to come, French President Emmanuel Macron has officially approved the construction of a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier . This decisive step paves the way for the replacement of the current aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, by 2038, reflecting Paris's commitment to maintaining its status as a major global power.
A strategic announcement from the heart of Abu Dhabi
The presidential announcement came during Macron's visit to French troops stationed in the United Arab Emirates for Christmas, a move carrying profound political and military significance that underscores the strength of the strategic partnership between Paris and Abu Dhabi. In his address, the French president stated: "In accordance with military programming laws, and following extensive studies, I have decided that France will acquire a new aircraft carrier, which will stand as a testament to our nation's strength and our industrial and technological capabilities.".
A qualitative leap in specifications and capabilities
The new aircraft carrier boasts significantly superior technical specifications compared to its predecessor, reflecting advancements in naval military technology. According to released details, the new carrier will be nuclear-powered, a strategic choice that grants it long-range operational autonomy without frequent refueling—a crucial element for long-range operations.
In terms of size, the new aircraft carrier will be significantly larger than the Charles de Gaulle, measuring 310 meters in length compared to the current carrier's 261 meters. Its displacement (weight) will reach approximately 80,000 tons, nearly double the Charles de Gaulle's weight of approximately 42,000 tons. The new ship is designed to accommodate a crew of 2,000 sailors and has the operational capacity to carry 30 new-generation fighter jets, thus enhancing the strike power of the French Navy.
Strategic and political dimensions
Despite the economic challenges and financial difficulties facing the French budget, the insistence on proceeding with this project reflects Paris's vision of national security. Possessing a nuclear aircraft carrier places France in a very exclusive club of nations capable of projecting power across the oceans, and guarantees its military decision-making independence from total dependence on allies.
Aircraft carriers are effective diplomatic and military tools, with the French presidency describing the new carrier as a “force in the service of freedom at sea and to confront the changes of the times,” noting the pivotal role it will play in protecting French and European interests in international waters.
The future of the Charles de Gaulle and the timeline
The new aircraft carrier is scheduled to enter service in 2038. Until then, the Charles de Gaulle will continue its missions. Reports indicate that a technical study will be conducted during the Charles de Gaulle's next major overhaul in 2029 to determine the feasibility of extending its operational life by a few additional years beyond 2038, based on the structural integrity of its hull and the condition of its nuclear reactors, to ensure a smooth transition of naval capabilities between the two generations.
