French President Emmanuel Macron ordered an increase in nuclear warheads during a speech at a naval base in Brest on March 2.
Macron’s Nuclear Expansion
President Emmanuel Macron delivered a speech on Monday, March 2, at the naval base in Île Longue, Brest. According to Le Monde, four nuclear-powered submarines equipped with ballistic missiles are stationed there, forming the “oceanic component of French nuclear deterrence,” alongside strategic air forces.
Macron announced that another submarine, L’Invincible, will join them in the future, with its scheduled launch in 2036. The president stated that in light of current threats, France must strengthen its nuclear deterrence capabilities.
France’s Nuclear Capabilities
Macron revealed he has ordered an increase in the number of nuclear warheads in France’s arsenal but declined to disclose the exact size. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), France currently possesses 290 nuclear warheads.
France’s nuclear arsenal is based on missiles launched from submarines and those carried by Rafale aircraft.
Criticism of International Arms Control
Macron criticized the regulatory frameworks governing nuclear issues, stating that international arms control agreements are facing problems. He noted that all parties have taken liberties, specifically mentioning the United States and Russia, which have recently withdrawn from arms treaties.
The president also proposed a concept of “advanced deterrence.” Poland has been identified as one of the countries interested in France’s nuclear deterrence program.
