President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to accelerate Rafale warplane orders and invest €1.5 billion in air base upgrades to support advanced nuclear missile technology. France aims to increase defense spending to 3-3.5% of GDP, up from the current 2%, reinforcing its strategic autonomy. The investment will fund the deployment of the Rafale S5 fighter jets, equipped with ASN4G hypersonic nuclear-armed cruise missiles, set to enter service by 2035. Macron’s initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance France’s military readiness and reduce dependence on U.S. security guarantees. As geopolitical tensions rise, France positions itself as a key independent defense power in Europe.
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