French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Sunday that France will construct a new aircraft carrier for its navy, marking a major investment in the country’s maritime and defense capabilities.
“We must be strong to be feared, and especially strong at sea,” Macron said while addressing French troops at a military base in Abu Dhabi. “That is why, in line with the last two military programming laws and after a comprehensive review, I have decided to equip France with a new aircraft carrier.”
Strategic decision taken this week
Macron emphasized that the decision to launch the program “on a large scale” was taken this week, highlighting the urgency of strengthening France’s naval power amid growing global instability.
According to French media, the new aircraft carrier is intended to replace the current Charles de Gaulle by the late 2030s, ensuring continuity of France’s ability to project power at sea.
Symbol of national strength
“The new aircraft carrier will be an illustration of the strength of our nation, the power of our industrial and technological base, and the determination to defend freedom at sea in turbulent times,” Macron stated.
Visit to the Gulf region
The French president arrived in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday to spend Christmas with French troops stationed there and to hold bilateral talks with Gulf leaders on strategic and diplomatic cooperation.
