President Macron announces a boost to France’s nuclear warheads and a new submarine, while ending public disclosure of arsenal numbers.
PARIS: President Emmanuel Macron has ordered an increase in the number of France’s nuclear warheads to strengthen the national arsenal.
Speaking from a key nuclear submarine base in western France, Macron confirmed the directive but declined to provide specific figures.
“We will no longer disclose the numbers of our nuclear arsenal,” Macron added. He stressed that reinforcing the nuclear arsenal is now essential for national security.
The president also announced plans to equip the armed forces with a new-generation nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine. This vessel is expected to begin sailing in 2036.
Macron stated he is ready to incorporate “a European dimension” into France’s concept of “advanced nuclear deterrence.”
He noted that European countries, including Britain, have expressed interest in the concept. Paris, London and Berlin will collaborate on projects involving very long-range missiles as part of broader efforts to bolster European defence capabilities.
