Macron says that France will order more Rafale combat planes in the reach of nuclear deterrence

The French president, Emmanuel Macron, has committed on Tuesday to increase the orders of Rafale combat aircraft and invest 1.5 billion euros in an air base in the country’s nuclear deterrence.

The announcement was made during a visit to the Luxeuil-Le-Bains Air Base in eastern France, which is a key strategic place for the country’s Air Force.

“The world we live in is increasingly dangerous and increasingly uncertain“Macron said, referring to the changes recorded in global alliances.

“Our country and our continent must continue to defend themselves, equip and prepare if we want to avoid war,” he warned, regarding Russia’s growing military threat.

Two new Rafale squadrons will be established – Totalizing around 40 aircraft -In the Luxeuil-Les-Bains base, which will receive 1,500 million euros of financing for modernization, Macron said.

By 2035, Luxeuil-Le-Bains will become the first basis to welcome the Rafale fighters of the new generation, equipped with a Hypersonic nuclear míssil.

In recent weeks, Macron has led the transition to a Common European framework of a more robust defense.

The French president said he was ready to use French nuclear arsenal to defend Europe. Only France and the United Kingdom have their own nuclear weapons in the continent.

After visiting Luxeuil-Le-Bains, Macron will move to Berlin to meet the German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and his successor, Friedrich Merz.

EITHER German Parliament approvedOn Tuesday afternoon, a historical package of measures to increase defense expenses.