Macron Announces Major Defense Investments at Luxeuil Airbase

France commits to accelerating Rafale jet orders, modernizing nuclear deterrence, and supporting Ukraine with Mirage fighter jets.

Emmanuel Macron visited the Luxeuil-les-Bains airbase to underscore its strategic role in France's nuclear deterrence and NATO's defense framework.
France will invest 1.5 billion euros to upgrade the Luxeuil airbase, preparing it to host advanced Rafale jets and hypersonic nuclear missiles by 2035.
Macron confirmed plans to increase and expedite Rafale fighter jet orders to enhance military readiness in response to shifting global dynamics.
France will transfer Mirage fighter jets to Ukraine as part of its ongoing support in the war against Russia.
Macron emphasized the need for European defense cooperation and announced a strategic debate on extending France's nuclear deterrence to protect European allies.