France plans $39B boost to defense by 2030

ISTANBUL

France plans to add 36 billion euros ($39 billion) to its defense budget by 2030, according to a proposal presented on Wednesday by the Defense Ministry.

"Our armed forces are capable of facing a major engagement at an uncertain time horizon," said Catherine Vautrin, minister of the armed forces and veterans, adding that the update aims to strengthen both operational readiness and national sovereignty.

The multi-year defense program (LPM 2024-2030) will increase the budget to 57.1 billion euros ($62 billion) in 2026 and 76.3 billion euros ($83 billion) by 2030.

It focuses on equipment, munitions, drones, operational reserves, and upgraded capabilities across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains, while maintaining nuclear deterrence and conventional forces.

The operational reserve is expected to reach 50,000 personnel by 2030, adding to 275,000 active service members.

Vautrin highlighted that the plan also prepares forces for operations in extreme environments and ensures continued industrial and technological sovereignty.