A New European Nuclear Alliance
France has announced the formation of a new European nuclear alliance and an extended deterrence program, which eight European nations have agreed to join. President Emmanuel Macron stated that a new phase of French deterrence, which he characterized as 'extended deterrence,' could begin today. This move comes amid heightened global security concerns and signals a significant shift in European defense posture. Under this program, France plans to expand its nuclear arsenal.
Macron also confirmed that France's first third-generation nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, named 'Le Terrible' (The Formidable), will be deployed in 2036. He emphasized that
"our deterrence has maintained, and continues to maintain, its destructive force in a dangerous, volatile, and unstable environment."The French leader has also called for an urgent United Nations Security Council meeting in response to escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Program Partners
France is prepared to commit the necessary resources to protect its closest partners should they request it. The countries that have joined the program are:
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- Poland
- Netherlands
- Belgium
- Greece
- Sweden
- Denmark
As Macron noted, this process will not involve joint final decision-making, joint planning, or joint execution, as this authority rests solely with the President of the Republic, who is accountable to the French people.
The establishment of this new nuclear alliance reflects growing anxiety among European nations regarding global security, particularly given strained relations between major powers. Extended deterrence could become a crucial step in enhancing the region's defensive capabilities, which would, in turn, affect strategic balances worldwide. The involvement of several European countries in this initiative underscores the importance of collective security and cooperation in the face of contemporary challenges.