Macron Announces Expanded Rafale Jet Orders to Strengthen France’s Defense Due to Ukraine Russia War

In a significant move to bolster France’s military preparedness, President Emmanuel Macron announced that the country would be ordering more Rafale fighter jets than initially planned. The decision comes as Europe faces mounting security concerns due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and broader geopolitical instability.

Speaking at the Luxeuil-les-Bains military base on March 18, 2025, Macron stressed the importance of strengthening France’s air and space force to maintain national and European security. “We will boost and expedite our procurement of Rafales,” he stated, underlining the urgent need to modernize and reinforce France’s military capabilities.

The additional Rafale jets will be part of a broader strategy to enhance France’s airpower, particularly in nuclear deterrence. To support this expansion, the French government plans to invest around €1.5 billion (approximately $1.6 billion) in upgrading the Luxeuil airbase. This investment will ensure that the base is equipped to handle new squadrons of Rafales, which will feature advanced nuclear missile technology. Macron emphasized that by 2035, this modernization effort will be a crucial part of France’s nuclear defense strategy.

The move also aligns with Europe’s push for greater military autonomy. Macron highlighted that France must remain prepared for any security threats, especially as some European nations fear a potential decline in U.S. military support. Other European countries, such as Germany, have already begun increasing their defense budgets to counter rising threats.

Macron has been advocating for a significant increase in France’s defense spending, proposing a rise from the current 2% of GDP to between 3% and 3.5%. His vision reflects a broader shift in European security policy, aiming to reduce dependence on external allies and strengthen the continent’s own defense capabilities.

With tensions in Eastern Europe showing no signs of easing, France’s decision to accelerate its Rafale procurement marks a crucial step in ensuring its military remains well-equipped to face future challenges.