Because of the uncertain world situation, France needs more nuclear weapons again, says President Macron.Image: keystone
Mar 2, 2026, 4:12 p.mMar 2, 2026, 4:12 p.m
France is increasing the number of its nuclear warheads in the face of growing global threats. He ordered that, said French President Emmanuel Macron. Unlike before, France will no longer provide information about the number of nuclear weapons it has. «If you want to be free, you have to be feared. If you want to be feared, you have to be strong.”
France is the only EU nuclear power
France has been the only remaining nuclear power in the EU since Great Britain left in 2020. According to the peace research institute Sipri, the country has 290 of the world’s approximately 12,200 nuclear weapons, making it the fourth largest nuclear power after Russia, the USA and China.
The country has four nuclear submarines that can fire missiles with nuclear warheads with a range of around 10,000 kilometers. France can also use nuclear weapons from the air. Its Rafale fighter jets can shoot down the country’s 50 cruise missiles with nuclear warheads. These officially have a range of around 500 kilometers.
Growing nuclear threat
Macron stressed that he owed it to France to ensure that deterrence remained credible. A larger nuclear arsenal is essential. However, this should not be an entry into a nuclear arms race.
To justify this, Macron referred to growing nuclear threats worldwide. The threat is becoming more complex and the defense of possible opponents is becoming stronger. Specifically, Macron cited China’s growing nuclear armament, the explosive situation in the Middle East and the threat from Russia.
On expanding France’s nuclear arsenal, Macron said a new nuclear submarine would be built by 2036. (sda/dpa)
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