Renewed Focus on European Defense
President Emmanuel Macron is set to unveil plans for France to take a more active role in Europe’s nuclear deterrence. Speaking from the Île Longue peninsula, home to France’s four nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, Macron will stress that this expanded role would complement the US nuclear umbrella, not compete with it. This address marks his first major speech on the topic since 2020, when his initial offer to involve European partners in nuclear exercises went largely unheeded.
Heightened Geopolitical Pressures
Interest in a stronger French nuclear contribution comes amid growing European security concerns. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine exposed vulnerabilities across the continent, while recent US political developments, including threats against NATO allies and plans to redeploy forces to the Indo-Pacific, have raised questions about Washington’s commitment. Macron has engaged in “strategic dialogue” with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and other EU leaders to explore how France’s nuclear doctrine could support European defense, reflecting a surge in interest from EU capitals.
France Emphasizes Measured Deterrence
France’s nuclear policy follows the principle of “strict sufficiency,” maintaining around 300 warheads — far fewer than the thousands held by the US and Russia — enough to ensure the capacity to inflict unacceptable damage if necessary. Officials emphasize that France is not engaged in an arms race but aims to provide credible deterrence. France and the UK have strengthened cooperation through the Northwood Declaration, establishing a Nuclear Steering Group and taking part in each other’s exercises, reinforcing a coordinated European nuclear strategy.
