France Plans to Allocate an Additional €36 Billion for Defense by 2030

During a briefing following a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, France's Minister of Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu, revealed the government's plans for a substantial increase in funding for the defense sector. Specifically, France intends to allocate an additional €36 billion by 2030, which will elevate the defense budget to €57.1 billion by 2026 and €76.3 billion by 2030, representing 2.5 percent of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Lecornu emphasized that the review of the military programming law, originally scheduled for 2027, has been initiated earlier to expedite the process. The minister noted that the French armed forces must be prepared for participation in a large-scale conflict, the timing of which is difficult to predict. He stressed that this is not about changing strategy, but rather strengthening it, particularly in the area of military capabilities.

Among the key areas outlined by Lecornu is the increase in ammunition supplies, for which an additional €8.5 billion is planned. The government also aims to develop drones and counter-drone systems, enhance air defense capabilities, and invest in space and intelligence capabilities. The minister highlighted that military orders for the French defense industry will amount to €14 billion in 2024, €20 billion in 2025, and subsequently €26 billion.

He also reminded attendees that France is the second-largest arms exporter in the world, underscoring the importance of developing the national defense industry to ensure the country's sovereignty. An additional €3.9 billion is planned for the development of communications, surveillance, and control in space, while €1.6 billion will be allocated for drones and anti-drone systems, including jammers and lasers.

Minister Lecornu also referenced the experience of the war in Ukraine, noting that 80 percent of battlefield casualties are inflicted by drones, necessitating an accelerated development of relevant technologies. He emphasized that the modern battlefield extends from the seabed to space, and France must be capable of operating at all these levels.

At the same time, according to the new document, there are no plans for additional purchases of Rafale fighter jets and frigates, and their numbers will remain unchanged at 225 aircraft and 15 first-rate ships. The operational reserve is expected to grow to 50,000 personnel by 2030, while the total number of the French armed forces is projected to reach 330,000.

The updated military programming law is expected to be adopted by Parliament by July 14. Earlier, France also announced additional investments in ammunition production, which will allow for orders totaling €8.5 billion by 2030.

These steps highlight France's increasing focus on defense spending in the face of global threats and conflicts arising around the world, as well as the country's commitment to strengthening its military capabilities in response to new challenges.