Defense: France plans an additional €36 billion by 2030

The French government plans to increase its military spending by €36 billion by 2030 as part of a revision of the military programming law. This increase aims to strengthen the country's capabilities in the face of an increasingly unstable international environment. The objective is to raise the defense budget to over €76 billion by the end of the decade, representing approximately 2,5% of gross domestic product. This trajectory marks an acceleration compared to the increases already implemented in recent years.

The project notably includes strengthening nuclear deterrence, with an increase in the number of warheads and the modernization of existing systems. Spending on this component is expected to remain stable as a proportion of the overall budget. Investments will also focus on conventional capabilities, with a significant allocation dedicated to munitions, missiles, and air defense systems, as well as the development of drones and related technologies.

A strengthened military strategy in the face of international uncertainties

This buildup of military power is taking place against the backdrop of the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, which have highlighted certain weaknesses in European military capabilities. It also occurs within a climate of uncertainty surrounding the United States' commitment to NATO, prompting France to strengthen its strategic autonomy.

The project also includes the development of sovereign capabilities, particularly in the areas of drones and missile detection systems, to reduce dependence on external partners. The text is expected to be presented to Parliament in the coming months, with the aim of adoption before the summer, against a backdrop of shifting international security dynamics.