French Navy's 2025 Budget: What to Expect

World Defense

French Navy's 2025 Budget: What to Expect

In 2025, the French defense budget is set to rise to €50.5 billion, marking a 3% increase from 2024 and continuing an upward trend since 2017. This budget underscores France's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities, with significant allocations directed toward the Navy's modernization and expansion.

 

Nuclear Deterrence Renewal

A substantial portion of the budget is dedicated to renewing France's nuclear deterrence capabilities. Approximately €26 billion is allocated for the maintenance and upgrade of the current fleet of four Le Triomphant-class SSBNs (nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines) and their infrastructure. This includes the development of the M51.3 submarine-launched ballistic missile, with preliminary work on the M51.4 variant also commencing. Additionally, the SNLE 3G program, aimed at constructing four new-generation SSBNs to replace the existing fleet, receives around €11 billion. The first steel cutting for these submarines occurred in early 2024, with commissioning planned post-2035.

Surface Fleet Enhancements

The French Navy's surface fleet is poised for significant developments:

  • Aircraft Carrier: Plans are underway for the PANG (Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération), the successor to the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier. While the official order is anticipated by late 2025, preliminary work, including the development of nuclear reactors, has already begun.

  • Frigates: The Navy's first-rank vessels, currently comprising eight FREMM frigates and two Horizon-class destroyers, will be augmented by five FDI (Frégate de Défense et d'Intervention) frigates. The first of these, "Amiral Ronarc’h," is undergoing sea trials and is expected to be commissioned soon. An order for the fourth FDI is scheduled for next year, with all units expected to be in service by 2032.

  • Mine Warfare: The SLAMF program aims to replace legacy mine warfare platforms. Orders for future mine countermeasure vessels (BGDM) are expected in 2025, with the existing Tripartite-class MCMVs receiving life extensions in the interim. Additionally, two new mine warfare modules are slated for delivery to enhance current capabilities.

  • Patrol Vessels: The patrol fleet will be bolstered by the addition of two overseas-based offshore patrol vessels (POM), bringing the total to four out of six planned units.

  • Replenishment Tankers: The second Jacques Chevallier-class replenishment tanker, recently launched in September, is expected to be delivered, enhancing the Navy's logistical support capabilities.

Maritime Aircraft Updates

Several advancements are planned for the Navy's aerial assets:

  • Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (AVSIMAR): Five Falcon 2000 aircraft from Dassault Aviation are slated for order, supplementing the seven previously ordered. To bridge capability gaps, two upgraded Falcon 50s will be introduced temporarily.

  • Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA): Two upgraded Atlantique 2 aircraft will join the squadron based in Lan-Bihoué, Brittany. The future replacement program for these MPAs remains under consideration, with the Airbus A321 MPA being a potential candidate.

  • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): The SDAM program, focusing on the VSR700 from Airbus, is progressing, though service entry is not imminent. In the meantime, alternatives like the Schiebel S100, already in service, and the developing S300 are being considered to meet immediate operational needs.

Ammunition and Armaments

The budget allocates funds for various munitions:

  • Missiles: Orders for an undisclosed number of missiles, including upgrades to the MdCN naval cruise missile and Exocet systems, are planned. Additional F-21 heavyweight torpedoes and Aster surface-to-air missiles will be procured to bolster stockpiles.

  • Naval Gun Systems: A new airburst ammunition for the Rapidfire naval gun system is expected to be ordered, enhancing the Navy's close-in defense capabilities.

Uncertainties and Political Context

It's important to note that recent political developments have introduced uncertainties into these plans. A vote of no confidence in December 2024 led to delays in the national defense budget approval. Although a new government was formed later that month, political tensions persist, and some projects may face postponements or cancellations. A special law has been enacted to maintain existing budgets temporarily, ensuring the continuity of public services, including defense.

In summary, the 2025 budget reflects France's commitment to modernizing its naval forces, with significant investments across various domains. However, the evolving political landscape may impact the execution of these plans, necessitating close monitoring of future developments.

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