Emmanuel Macron announces launch of large-scale military program, Bloomberg reports

French President Emmanuel Macron has confirmed the launch of a major defense project aimed at modernizing the navy and supporting the national economy.

The decision was taken against the backdrop of budgetary strain and ongoing debates over public spending priorities.

Program launch

Speaking to French service members in Abu Dhabi, Macron said the decision to start the large-scale program had been approved this week. He noted that the project would directly support the economy and some 800 suppliers, about 80% of which are small and medium-sized enterprises, despite the country’s budget uncertainty.

Next-generation aircraft carrier

The program centers on the next-generation aircraft carrier known as PANG, designed to replace the current carrier Charles de Gaulle.

Under the provisions of the military planning bill, the vessel is scheduled to enter service in 2038. Several industrial players are involved in the project, including Naval Group.

Budget risks and disputes

France is facing uncertainty in public finances as negotiations over the 2026 budget have been postponed until January.

The cabinet plans to present a special bill that would temporarily defer key spending and tax decisions. Against this backdrop, some lawmakers had proposed delaying the aircraft carrier’s construction due to its cost, previously estimated by the government at €10 billion.

Earlier, the Kremlin said it was open to dialogue between Vladimir Putin and Macron, noting that such contacts could be viewed positively if there is mutual political will.

Separately, Macron has said Europe is capable of reaching a coordinated decision on financing Ukraine’s needs, stressing that the EU’s position on the matter remains unequivocally clear.