France approves €10B nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to bolster military dominance

France is set to build a next-generation aircraft carrier after President Emmanuel Macron approved the €10 billion project. The new vessel will stretch 310 metres long, weigh 80,000 tons, and run on two nuclear reactors—making it one of only two such carriers in the world outside the US. Macron also called for an extra €36 billion in defence funding by 2030, with €3.5 billion allocated this year alone.

The future carrier will feature three catapult tracks instead of the usual two, allowing it to launch and recover aircraft at the same time. This design boosts efficiency for the 40 onboard planes. Construction marks a long-term commitment, with the project spanning roughly two decades.

Macron framed the move as essential for France's independence, stating that the nation must be 'feared' and 'powerful' to stay free. He described the French spirit as one of resistance and a refusal to submit. The announcement comes alongside broader defence plans, including a push to extend France's nuclear deterrence across Europe. Seven European countries—Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Sweden, Denmark, and Germany—have already backed Macron's proposal. Their support signals growing cooperation on a shared European security strategy.

The carrier will join a select group of nuclear-powered vessels, reinforcing France's military capabilities. With €36 billion earmarked for defence by 2030, the project underscores the country's push for greater strategic autonomy. The first phase of funding begins this year, with €3.5 billion set aside for immediate upgrades.