French President Emmanuel Macron has officially authorized the construction of France’s next-generation nuclear-powered aircraft carrier during his visit to French troops in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday. This strategic decision comes despite significant budgetary challenges facing the European Union’s second-largest economy.
The new vessel will replace France’s current flagship, the nuclear-powered Charles de Gaulle, which entered service in 2001 after more than a decade of construction. The Charles de Gaulle remains the only nuclear-powered aircraft carrier outside the US Navy.
Macron announced the move during his Christmas visit with French forces stationed in the UAE, stating, ‘In line with the last two military programming laws, and after a thorough and comprehensive review, I have decided to equip France with a new aircraft carrier.’ He emphasized the geopolitical necessity of the project, adding, ‘In an age of predators, we must be strong in order to be feared.’
The new carrier represents a substantial upgrade in capabilities, displacing nearly 80,000 tonnes and measuring approximately 310 meters in length—significantly larger than the Charles de Gaulle’s 42,000 tonnes and 261-meter frame. It will accommodate a crew of 2,000 and carry up to 30 fighter jets.
The announcement comes amid criticism from French military officials, including General Fabien Mandon, who questioned whether resources should be prioritized toward more immediate concerns given rising tensions with Russia. The project’s launch will enable the signing of all necessary contracts to advance construction.
While the French carrier will still be smaller than the US Navy’s 11 supercarriers (each displacing over 100,000 tons), it will join an elite group of large carriers operated only by China and Britain’s Royal Navy, though both nations use conventional power sources.
Macron’s UAE visit also focused on strengthening bilateral ties, particularly regarding cooperation against drug trafficking. The French president met with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss enhancing their strategic partnership, especially concerning ‘stability in the Middle East.’ The UAE remains a significant purchaser of French military equipment, and Paris is reportedly considering Abu Dhabi’s potential involvement in its troubled future fighter jet program following Germany’s anticipated withdrawal.