French Defense at a Crossroads

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in a myriad of new challenges, including for French security and defense policies. Demand for its defense industries is rising. The French armed forces are now more than ever needed since the end of the Cold War to ensure the defense of Europe, argues Constant Despont in this CSS Analysis.

by Rena Uphoff
Macron
French President Emmanuel Macron speaks during a news conference following a NATO summit in Brussels, Belgium on 24 March 2022. Gonzalo Fuentes / Reuters

France is the world’s third largest weapons manufacturer and has one of the most capable armed forces in Europe. It is a permanent member of the UN Security Council and possesses its own nuclear deterrent. Therefore, Paris is a key actor for European defense policy. France has long had intentions to further develop its armed forces to maintain its strategic autonomy and ensure its place as a key actor within NATO and in Europe. The war in Ukraine will likely push France to re-examine its existing plans and approaches to European defense.

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