France begins construction of a new generation nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.
President Emmanuel Macron officially launched the €10.2 billion PA-NG aircraft carrier project, which is expected to replace the Charles de Gaulle in 2038.
French President Emmanuel Macron has officially announced the decision to equip the country with a new generation aircraft carrier (PA-NG). This is a strategic move to maintain nuclear deterrence and affirm France's position in defense technology, with plans to replace the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier by 2038.
Technical specifications and technological advancements
The new generation aircraft carrier boasts superior dimensions and tonnage compared to its predecessor. Weighing 77,000 tons, it is nearly twice as heavy as the Charles de Gaulle (42,000 tons). Detailed specifications include a length of 310m and a width of 85m, allowing for the deployment of a wide variety of modern equipment.
In terms of propulsion, PA-NG will operate using two K22 nuclear reactors designed by TechnicAtome. This system provides significantly more power than older reactors, ensuring continuous operation in remote offshore areas.
Air combat and defense capabilities
The most significant technological highlight is the application of the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS). This technology is similar to the system currently operating on the USS Gerald Ford, enabling more accurate aircraft launches, reducing stress on the airframe, and supporting aircraft weighing up to 35 tons.
The ship is designed to carry Rafale Marine F5 fighter jets, aircraft from the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), and various types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). For self-defense, France plans to equip it with RapidFire 40mm gun turrets instead of the Narwhal 20mm guns, enhancing its ability to counter multi-layered threats from the air and surface.
Economic impact and strategic vision
The aircraft carrier program is a major driver for the French economy. The 2025 budget draft has allocated 10.2 billion euros specifically for this project. Naval Group will handle the overall design, while the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard will be responsible for hull construction and weapons integration.
Approximately 800 suppliers are expected to participate in the supply chain, with 80% being small and medium-sized enterprises. President Macron emphasized that this project is not only a continuation of the past but also demonstrates the nation's industrial and technological strength.
Replacement roadmap and targets by 2070
The Charles de Gaulle, commissioned in 2001, is expected to end its operational life in 2038 after 37 years of service. Meanwhile, the new generation aircraft carrier PA-NG is designed to serve the French Navy until 2070. Maintaining nuclear-powered aircraft carriers helps France maintain its role in strategic regions, especially the Indo-Pacific, which will contribute more than 40% of the world's GDP in the next decade.
According to the plan, President Macron will attend the official groundbreaking ceremony at the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire in February 2026.
