In a significant shift in national defense policy, French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday the establishment of a voluntary 10-month military service program set to commence in 2026. This strategic initiative marks France’s response to evolving security dynamics in Europe, particularly influenced by Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Addressing troops at Varces-Allieres-et-Risset in southeastern France, Macron detailed that the program would initially deploy approximately 3,000 volunteers during its pilot phase next summer, with ambitious expansion targets of 10,000 participants by 2030 and 50,000 by 2035. The program primarily targets citizens aged 18-19, though it will accommodate individuals with specialized skills up to age 25.
The President emphasized the voluntary nature of the service while acknowledging parliamentary authority to mandate participation during exceptional national crises. ‘This national service will operate primarily with volunteers selected to meet our armed forces’ requirements,’ Macron stated, adding that deployments would be restricted to French territory exclusively.
This defense modernization effort emerges against the backdrop of heightened alerts from French military leadership. Armed Forces Chief of Staff Fabien Mandon recently cautioned that Russia appears to be ‘preparing for a confrontation by 2030 with our countries,’ prompting serious national security evaluations.
The administration has actively addressed concerns about potential combat deployment, with Macron explicitly clarifying that ‘we are not going to send our young people to Ukraine.’ The initiative aligns with similar measures adopted by European neighbors including Latvia, Lithuania, and Denmark, reflecting a continental trend toward strengthened defense preparedness.
France’s military currently maintains 200,000 active personnel and 47,000 reservists, with projections indicating growth to 210,000 and 80,000 respectively by 2030. The voluntary service program aims to enhance these numbers while creating a substantial reservoir of trained reservists capable of mobilization during emergencies.