France Unveils New Aircraft Carrier Plan as Macron Confirms €10.25 Billion PANG Project

France will build a new aircraft carrier to replace the Charles de Gaulle. President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the plan during a visit to the Saint-Nazaire shipyard. The project is called Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération, or PANG. Work will involve about 800 companies. The new carrier is set to enter service in 2038.

The plan marks a major step for France. It boosts the nation’s naval strength at a time of rising global tension. According to Reuters, the project will anchor France’s long-term defense strategy. It also supports jobs and industry inside the country.

France’s New Aircraft Carrier Project Moves Forward

The PANG carrier will be the largest warship ever built in Europe. It will use modern systems and support advanced fighter jets. The Saint-Nazaire shipyard will lead construction with help from partners across France. Each phase will take years of work.

The cost is set at €10.25 billion. This includes design, testing, and full construction. The money also supports French shipbuilding skills. The government sees this as a long-term investment. It supports industry at a time when global markets remain uncertain.

According to Reuters and other reputable sources, the carrier will improve France’s role in NATO missions. It will also expand the country’s ability to operate far from home waters. Military planners say the PANG will be key for the next generation of naval operations.

The Charles de Gaulle has served for more than two decades. It will stay in service until the new carrier is ready. This ensures France keeps at least one active aircraft carrier during the transition.

How the PANG Carrier Shapes Europe’s Defense Future

The carrier project sends a signal to Europe and global partners. It shows that France plans to keep a strong and independent defense force. It also supports Europe’s wider push to build more defense capacity. Many leaders in Europe see the project as an example of long-term planning.

The plan helps workers and engineers who specialize in naval manufacturing. It will keep thousands of jobs active for years. The economic effect will reach cities and towns that supply parts and systems.

Analysts say the PANG may shape future European cooperation projects. It shows how one large project can join many companies into one supply chain. It also helps Europe reduce its need for foreign military systems.

France’s new aircraft carrier project stands as a major step for national defense. The PANG plan will support jobs, strengthen Europe, and expand France’s naval reach. The new aircraft carrier will shape French defense for decades.

A quick knowledge drop for you-

Q1: What is the new French aircraft carrier called?

It is called the Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération, or PANG. It will replace the Charles de Gaulle. It is set to enter service in 2038.

Q2: How much will the PANG aircraft carrier cost?

The project cost is about €10.25 billion. This covers design, testing, and construction. It also supports jobs across France.

Q3: Where will France build the new aircraft carrier?

Construction will take place at the Saint-Nazaire shipyard. This site has built large naval ships before. It will work with about 800 companies.

Q4: Why does France need a new aircraft carrier?

The Charles de Gaulle is aging. France needs a modern carrier for future missions. The PANG will support advanced aircraft and new systems.

Q5: When will the new aircraft carrier be ready?

The carrier is planned for service in 2038. Work will continue in phases until then. France will keep the Charles de Gaulle active during the transition.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, AP News, BBC News