European Power France Annouces Plans To Build New Aircraft Carrier

According to a report by Reuters on Sunday 21 December, 2025, France is moving ahead with plans to build a new aircraft carrier, a project President Emmanuel Macron confirmed while addressing French troops stationed in the Gulf.

Speaking at a military base in Abu Dhabi, close to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, Macron said the new carrier would replace the ageing Charles de Gaulle and significantly strengthen France’s reach at sea. The announcement revives a plan first floated back in 2020, but one that now appears to be firmly back on track.

According to Macron, the green light for the ambitious programme was given only days ago. “The decision to launch this vast programme was taken this week,” he told the troops, stressing that the project would not only enhance military capabilities but also support France’s industrial sector, particularly small and medium-sized companies involved in defence manufacturing.

The future vessel is expected to be larger and more technologically advanced than the current flagship carrier. Army Minister Catherine Vautrin later indicated that the ship should enter service around 2038, roughly when the Charles de Gaulle – commissioned in 2001 after a long development period – is due to be retired.

Still, the plan has not gone without criticism at home. Some lawmakers from the political centre and moderate left have questioned whether now is the right time to commit to such an expensive undertaking, pointing to pressure on France’s public finances.

Despite those concerns, France continues to position itself as one of Europe’s foremost military powers. It remains among a small group of countries with nuclear capabilities and sees naval strength as central to its global role.

If you love political news or like to get more news happening around the globe, use the button below to get more verified news happening around Nigeria and the world today.